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{{Title|''Halo: Spartan Assault''}} | {{Title|''Halo: Spartan Assault''}} | ||
{{Game Infobox | |||
{{Game | |||
|name= ''Halo: Spartan Assault'' | |name= ''Halo: Spartan Assault'' | ||
|image= [[File:HSA-Cover.jpg|300px|center]] | |image= [[File:HSA-Cover.jpg|300px|center]] | ||
|developer= [[343 Industries]], [[Vanguard Games]] | |developer= [[343 Industries]], [[Vanguard Games]] | ||
|publisher= [[Microsoft Studios]] | |publisher= [[Microsoft Studios]] | ||
|platform= [[Wikipedia:Windows 8|Windows 8]] (PC and tablet)<br>[[Wikipedia:Windows Phone 8|Windows Phone 8]]<br>[[Xbox 360]]<ref name="HWP">[https://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2013/10/29/Spartan-Assault-is-coming-to-Xbox-One-and-Xbox-360.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault Is Coming to Xbox One and Xbox 360'']</ref><br>[[Xbox One]]<ref name="HWP"/><br>[[Wikipedia:Steam (software)|Steam]]<ref name="steam"/> | |||
|releasedate= July 18, [[2013]]<ref name="windows8only"/><ref name="waypoint">[http://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/games/halospartanassault '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault'']</ref> {{C|Windows 8}}<br> December 23, 2013<ref name="Xbone">[http://www.oxm.co.uk/68528/halo-spartan-assault-is-out-now-for-xbox-one/ '''Xbox The Official Magazine''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault is out now for Xbox One'']</ref> {{C|Xbox One}}<br> January 31, 2014<ref name="console dates"/><ref name="XM">[http://marketplace.xbox.com/en-US/Product/Halo-Spartan-Assault/66acd000-77fe-1000-9115-d80258411412 '''Xbox.com''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault'']</ref><ref name="official360reldate">[https://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2014/01/30/Halo-Spartan-Assault-for-Xbox-360-Release-Date-Revealed.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault'' for Xbox 360 Releases Tomorrow!]</ref> {{C|Xbox 360}}<br>April 4, 2014 {{C|Steam}}<ref name="steam">[https://blogs.halowaypoint.com/en-us/blogs/headlines/posts/halo-spartan-assault-is-coming-to-steam '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault Is Coming to Steam!'']</ref> | |||
|platform= [[Wikipedia:Windows 8|Windows 8]] (PC and tablet)<br>[[Wikipedia:Windows Phone 8|Windows Phone 8]]<br>[[Xbox 360]]<ref name="HWP">[https://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2013/10/29/Spartan-Assault-is-coming-to-Xbox-One-and-Xbox-360.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault Is Coming to Xbox One and Xbox 360'']</ref><br>[[Xbox One]] | |||
|releasedate= July 18, [[2013]] | |||
|genre= | |genre= | ||
|modes= [[Campaign]]<br>[[Cooperative]] | |modes= [[Campaign]]<br>[[Cooperative]]<ref name="HWP"/> | ||
|rating= [[Wikipedia:Entertainment Software Ratings Board|ESRB]]: Teen (T) for Blood and Violence | |rating= [[Wikipedia:Entertainment Software Ratings Board|ESRB]]: Teen (T) for Blood and Violence | ||
[[Wikipedia:Pan European Game Information|PEGI]]: 16+ | |||
[[Wikipedia:Pan European Game Information|PEGI]]: 16+ | |||
}} | }} | ||
{{Quote|Halo like you have never played before.|Halo Waypoint | {{Quote|Halo like you have never played before.|Halo Waypoint<ref name="waypoint"/>}} | ||
'''''Halo: Spartan Assault''''' is an isometric shooter video game developed by [[Vanguard Games]] in collaboration with [[343 Industries]]; it is the eighth game in the ''Halo'' series. Originally designed and released for [[Wikipedia:Windows 8|Microsoft Windows 8]] and [[Wikipedia:Windows Phone 8|Windows Phone 8]], enhanced ports of the game | '''''Halo: Spartan Assault''''' is an isometric shooter video game developed by [[Vanguard Games]] in collaboration with [[343 Industries]]; it is the eighth game in the ''Halo'' series. Originally designed and released for [[Wikipedia:Windows 8|Microsoft Windows 8]] and [[Wikipedia:Windows Phone 8|Windows Phone 8]], enhanced ports of the game are upcoming for [[Xbox 360]] and [[Xbox One]].<ref name="HWP"/> Set between the events of ''[[Halo 3]]'' and ''[[Halo 4]]'', the game features 25 missions that tell the story of the [[SPARTAN-IV Program]]'s earliest operations.<ref name="official">[http://www.halowaypoint.com/en-US/games/halospartanassault '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault'']</ref><ref name="firsttrailer">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxsYQtltOco ''Halo: Spartan Assault'' '''Announce Trailer''']</ref><ref name="windows8only">[http://www.gameinformer.com/games/halo_spartan_assault/b/pc/archive/2013/06/04/343-industries-reveals-halo-spartan-assault.aspx '''GameInformer''': ''343 Industries Reveals Halo: Spartan Assault'']</ref> The game went by the codename "'''Bootcamp'''" prior to its official announcement.<ref name="Waypoint 652013">[http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2013/06/05/The-Halo-Bulletin-6513.aspx '''Halo Waypoint:''' ''The Halo Bulletin 6.5.2012'']</ref> ''Spartan Assault'' was released on [[2013|July 18, 2013]] for Windows 8. The complete version of the game (including all DLC) was released on December 23, 2013 for Xbox One and released on [[2014|January 31, 2014]] for Xbox 360.<ref name="Xbone"/><ref name="console dates">[https://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2013/12/09/Halo-Spartan-Assault-Release-Date-Revealed.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault Release Date Revealed'']</ref><ref name="XM"/><ref name="official360reldate"/><ref>[http://www.totalxbox.com/70364/halo-spartan-assault-xbox-360-now-available-on-xbox-live '''Xbox The Official Magazine''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault Xbox 360 now available on Xbox Live'']</ref> The game was released on April 4, 2014 for [[Wikipedia:Steam (software)|Steam]].<ref name="steam"/> | ||
==Synopsis== | ==Synopsis== | ||
===Characters and setting=== | ===Characters and setting=== | ||
Set sometime | Set sometime between [[2553#March|March 2553]] and [[2557#July|July 2557]], ''Halo: Spartan Assault''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s main narrative explores the SPARTAN-IVs' first Spartan Ops<!--This is the in-universe term, not the game mode.--> during the [[Battle of Draetheus V]].<ref name="gameplay 1">[http://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/games/halospartanassault/mediadetail?title=halo-spartan-assault-defend&id=984bc596-d52b-49e4-be4c-93457bd55bf3&category=Videos '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault - Defend'']</ref><ref name="gameplay 2">[http://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/games/halospartanassault/mediadetail?title=halo-spartan-assault-clear&id=8704efa0-1cc1-4920-8209-5c9e13440c97&category=Videos '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault -Clear'']</ref> This battle is part of the [[Reclamation conflict|second war]] between the [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]] and the [[Merg Vol's Covenant faction|remnants]] of the [[Covenant]], which is still being waged during the events of ''Halo 4''.<ref name="official"/><ref name="Reed">[http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2013/06/03/Halo-Initiation-Writer-Interview.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Halo Initiation Writer Interview'']</ref><ref>[http://blogs.windows.com/windows_phone/b/windowsphone/archive/2013/06/04/coming-this-summer-a-new-halo-for-windows-phone-8.aspx Coming this summer: '''Windows Phone Blog''' ''A new Halo for Windows Phone 8'']</ref> The story unfolds through the [[UNSC Tactical Simulator|UNSC TACSIM]], a historical computer simulation which the SPARTAN-IVs use for combat analysis and training, much like ''Halo 4''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s [[War Games]] mode,<ref name="firsttrailer"/><ref name="pareport''>[http://penny-arcade.com/report/article/the-next-halo-game-is-coming-to-hardware-you-dont-have-and-software-you-don '''The PA Report''': ''The next Halo game is coming to hardware you don’t have, and software you don’t want'']</ref> though the framing story takes place at some point after ''Halo 4''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s campaign.<ref group="note">[[Roland]] was activated on December 5, 2557, roughly five months after the [[First Battle of Requiem]], to replace ''Infinity''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s previous AI, [[Aine]]. The game's framing story thus takes place after the events of ''Halo 4''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s campaign, though when it occurs in relation to [[Spartan Ops]] is unclear. However, ''[[Halo: Escalation]]'' indicates that ''Infinity'' returned directly to Earth after [[Requiem]]'s destruction, suggesting that the framing narrative takes place in the gap between Roland's creation and the [[Second Battle of Requiem]].</ref> This framing structure explains some of the game's arcade-like elements, such as weapons' ability to fire continuously;<ref name="gameplay 1"/><ref name="gameplay 2"/> indeed, [[Roland]] jests that the TACSIM doubles as "a fun game you can play in your spare time".<ref>''Halo: Spartan Assault'', opening cutscene</ref> | ||
The campaign has two protagonists, Spartans [[Sarah Palmer]] and [[Edward Davis]], whose first meeting is depicted in the ''[[Halo: Initiation]]'' limited comic series. | The campaign has two protagonists, Spartans [[Sarah Palmer]] and [[Edward Davis]], whose first meeting is depicted in the ''[[Halo: Initiation]]'' limited comic series.<ref name="Reed"/> Rather than the in-engine cutscenes used in most ''Halo'' games, ''Spartan Assault'' instead makes use of motion comic-style animations between missions, much like the [[terminal]]s in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'' and ''Halo 4''.<ref name="windows8only"/> [[Halo: Spartan Assault/Quotes|Various quotes]] are displayed in the game's mission loading screens, some acting as gameplay tips while others provide backstory for the events of the game. | ||
===Plot=== | ===Plot=== | ||
{{Spoiler | {{Spoiler}} | ||
''Spartan Assault'' begins with the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}}'s [[AI]] [[Roland]] giving several [[Spartan-IV]]'s a lesson on historical battles. Using [[UNSC Tactical Simulator]]s, Roland reveals that the Spartan users can assume the roles of Spartans [[Edward Davis]] and [[Sarah Palmer]] during the [[Battle of Draetheus V]], to enhance strategic skills. Roland explains that the engagement started when a [[Merg Vol's Covenant|splinter sect of Covenant]] ignored the Ceasefire of [[2552]] and attacked [[UNSC]] forces on the former [[Forerunner]] world of [[Draetheus V]].<ref name="umbra">'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Operation A: Umbra]]''</ref> | ''Spartan Assault'' begins with the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}}'s [[AI]] [[Roland]] giving several [[Spartan-IV]]'s a lesson on historical battles. Using [[UNSC Tactical Simulator]]s, Roland reveals that the Spartan users can assume the roles of Spartans [[Edward Davis]] and [[Sarah Palmer]] during the [[Battle of Draetheus V]], to enhance strategic skills. Roland explains that the engagement started when a [[Merg Vol's Covenant faction|splinter sect of Covenant]] ignored the Ceasefire of [[2552]] and attacked [[UNSC]] forces on the former [[Forerunner]] world of [[Draetheus V]].<ref name="umbra">'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Operation A: Umbra]]''</ref> | ||
[[File:Operation A.png|thumb|250px| | [[File:Operation A.png|thumb|250px|The Covenant fleet arriving at [[Draetheus V]].]] | ||
The | The Covenant forces are led by [[Sangheili]] [[Zealot]] [[Merg Vol]]. Vol leads a fleet of ships to the planet and the Covenant deploys troops on both Draetheus V and its [[moon]] [[X50]]. Palmer and Davis lead the UNSC in defending the planet from the Covenant. After thwarting the initial assault, Davis moved to secure the UNSC's [[Research Facility Alpha]] and the Forerunner artifact located therein, which appeared to be the Covenant's main target.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 1: Assault on CF-32|Assault on CF-32]]''</ref> However, the Covenant resumed their assault and the UNSC feared the research facility would soon be crushed. Palmer, with a Marine detachment, infiltrated artillery positions the Covenant had set up and destroyed them.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 2: The Mirror Mantle Counter-Assault|The Mirror Mantle Counter-Assault]]''</ref> Spartan Davis later noticed the Covenant's heavy reliance on dropship insertion. Davis realized they would be vulnerable to focused anti-aircraft fire, so, using [[M9 Wolverine]]s, he began establishing air defenses west of the facility at a location designated Glacial Perch.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 3: Reinforcement of the Perch|Reinforcement of the Perch]]''</ref> | ||
While Spartan Davis was successful in slowing the enemy advance, | While Spartan Davis was successful in slowing the enemy advance, the Covenant forces were too overwhelming. Sarah Palmer began fighting her way upstream through the invasion in an attempt to reach one of the northern outposts. Her plan was to destroy Covenant air support and give the [[AV-14 Hornet]]s a chance to land near the outposts. The ultimate goal was to get off X50 and warn Draetheus V of the Covenant invasion. Within an hour of their arrival at X50, the Covenant owned the moon. Despite the ferocity of the assault on X50, the UNSC forces on Draetheus V had no idea anything was going on because the planet's unique magnetic resonance frequently made off-world communication nearly impossible.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 4: Live to Fight|Live to Fight]]''</ref> | ||
[[File:Operation C.png|thumb|250px|left|[[Merg Vol]] activates [[X50]].]] | [[File:Operation C.png|thumb|250px|left|[[Merg Vol]] activates [[X50]].]] | ||
While Davis defends the moon, Palmer and a small amount of UNSC forces remains on Draetheus V, outgunned and out-manned. | While Davis defends the moon, Palmer and a small amount of UNSC forces remains on Draetheus V, outgunned and out-manned. The Covenant attack Draetheus V's main military outpost, [[Faraday Base]], and breach the first defense lines before the base's sentry turrets were fully operational.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 6: Siege of Faraday|Siege of Faraday]]''</ref> After securing Faraday, Palmer began trying to establish the location of the Covenant officers leading the invasion. After taking significant losses, Marines of the [[21st Scout platoon]] had managed to uncover a set of promising coordinates. After tracking the officers down, she quickly eliminated them.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 8: Hunt for the Sangheili Command|Hunt for the Sangheili Command]]''</ref> | ||
As Spartan Palmer led the charge on Draetheus V, Spartan Davis continued to face considerable enemy threat on the moon. Furthermore, it was revealed that X50 was not a natural moon after all, but a [[Forerunner]] megastructure capable of constructing and destroying planets. Upon finding his way into the control center, Merg Vol tuned X50's main weapon on Draetheus V and began to dismantle the planet. | As Spartan Palmer led the charge on Draetheus V, Spartan Davis continued to face considerable enemy threat on the moon. Furthermore, it was revealed that X50 was not a natural moon after all, but a [[Forerunner]] megastructure capable of constructing and destroying planets. Upon finding his way into the control center, Merg Vol tuned X50's main weapon on Draetheus V and began to dismantle the planet. The Covenant forces activated the primary weapon of the X50 construct. Directed toward the planet, the beam began to disintegrate Draetheus V, destabilizing it.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''' - ''[[Operation C: Monolith]]''</ref> Enormous slabs of rock were slowly floating away from the planet's surface and both UNSC and Covenant troops were scrambling to get to safety as the UNSC continued to evacuate the planet.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 16: Escape from the Southern Fields|Escape from the Southern Fields]]''</ref> The Covenant continued to attack the planet and the UNSC quickly realized that Draetheus V was ill-prepared for a full evacuation. There was not enough transportation to allow everyone to leave Draetheus V. However, the UNSC raided a Covenant airfield and stole numerous Covenant aircraft. With Palmer's help, 23 Covenant aircraft carrying civilians made it off the planet.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 20: Defense of the Enemies' Airbase|Defense of the Enemies' Airbase]]''</ref> | ||
In a stroke of luck, the {{UNSCShip|Eminent Domain}} was able to outmaneuver Covenant forces in orbit over the moon and offer some support by deploying [[ODST]]s to the southern [[Mirror Flats]]. The [[3rd Helljumper Platoon]] was the first to land on Draetheus V's moon. Their drop zone was less than a mile from Alpha facility but the landing scattered them across the razor sharp rock face of the Glacial Perch. They were quickly surrounded by Covenant infantry and taking heavy losses, but Davis came to their assistance.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 11: Descend from the Perch|Descend from the Perch]]''</ref> Davis connected with UNSC combat technicians who believed they could render the Forerunner structure inert; they just needed the chance to get inside the structure.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 13: Assault on the Supply Lines|Assault on the Supply Lines]]''</ref> Davis and the remaining Marines assisted the combat technicians securing the Forerunner structure while | In a stroke of luck, the {{UNSCShip|Eminent Domain}} was able to outmaneuver Covenant forces in orbit over the moon and offer some support by deploying [[ODST]]s to the southern [[Mirror Flats]]. The [[3rd Helljumper Platoon]] was the first to land on Draetheus V's moon. Their drop zone was less than a mile from Alpha facility but the landing scattered them across the razor sharp rock face of the mountain range called Glacial Perch. They were quickly surrounded by Covenant infantry and taking heavy losses, but Davis came to their assistance.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 11: Descend from the Perch|Descend from the Perch]]''</ref> Davis connected with UNSC combat technicians who believed they could render the Forerunner structure inert; they just needed the chance to get inside the structure.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 13: Assault on the Supply Lines|Assault on the Supply Lines]]''</ref> Davis and the remaining Marines assisted the combat technicians securing the Forerunner structure while the Covenant reinforcements did everything in their power to stop the technicians. With supporting sniper fire from higher grounds, Davis and his men were able to buy the technicians just enough time to do their work. However, even with their job complete, it was too late for Draetheus V. The planet was already breaking apart.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 15: Superstructure Stand-off|Superstructure Stand-off]]''</ref> | ||
[[File:Davis last stand.jpg|thumb|250px|Davis' last stand.]] | [[File:Davis last stand.jpg|thumb|250px|Davis' last stand.]] | ||
While defending the moon, Spartan Davis was killed by an overwhelming amount of [[Sangheili]] forces. With transportation secured, one last hurdle remained in getting the colonists safely off of Draetheus V. The leader of the | While defending the moon, Spartan Davis was killed by an overwhelming amount of [[Sangheili]] forces. With transportation secured, one last hurdle remained in getting the colonists safely off of Draetheus V. The leader of the Covenant forces, [[Merg Vol]], was still present on moon X50, providing the remaining Covenant forces with a rallying point and cry. If the colonists were to leave Draetheus V's orbit alive, Merg Vol would need to be terminated. Palmer suspected the Covenant's officer on Draetheus V, [[Parg Vol]] had a [[Phantom gunboat|personal transport]] hidden away. After completing the evacuation operation, locating Parg Vol's ship became Palmer's highest priority. After fighting through heavy Covenant forces she was able to locate Vol's Phantom and used it to get to X50.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 21: Hunt for the Phantom|Hunt for the Phantom]]''</ref> Having successfully piloted the Phantom through the Covenant fleet orbiting Draetheus V's moon, Palmer was able to land south of Merg Vol's camp, out of range of his [[Type-38 Tyrant|turrets]].<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 23: Infiltration of the Cult Leader's Base|Infiltration of the Cult Leader's Base]]''</ref> | ||
[[File:Battle for the Moon.png|thumb|250px|left|Palmer approaching Vol.]] | [[File:Battle for the Moon.png|thumb|250px|left|Palmer approaching Vol.]] | ||
Merg Vol was convinced he had been chosen by his gods to wield the power contained within the Forerunner structure. Having spent considerable resources to unlock its secrets, Vol managed to activate the structure's emergency defenses. With the deadly defenses at his command, Vol had become extremely dangerous. Unable to contact Spartan Davis since landing on Draetheus V's moon, Palmer prepared to battle Vol on her own. Vol's exact location had not been difficult to find: the direct area at the foot of the Forerunner structure was littered with a trail of dead UNSC soldiers. After facing Merg Vol's final forces and Forerunner [[beam turret]]s, she engaged Merg Vol himself. Despite a difficult fight, Palmer was able to overtake Vol and executed him with her [[M6H magnum]]. | Merg Vol was convinced he had been chosen by his gods to wield the power contained within the Forerunner structure. Having spent considerable resources to unlock its secrets, Vol managed to activate the structure's emergency defenses. With the deadly defenses at his command, Vol had become extremely dangerous. Unable to contact Spartan Davis since landing on Draetheus V's moon, Palmer prepared to battle Vol on her own. Vol's exact location had not been difficult to find: the direct area at the foot of the Forerunner structure was littered with a trail of dead UNSC soldiers. After facing Merg Vol's final forces and Forerunner [[beam turret]]s, she engaged Merg Vol himself. Despite a difficult fight, Palmer was able to overtake Vol and executed him with her [[M6H Personal Defense Weapon System|M6H magnum]]. | ||
With Merg Vol killed and | With Merg Vol killed and the Covenant forces were defeated and the surviving colonists of Draetheus V were able to safely evacuate the system. After killing Vol, Palmer sabotaged the Forerunner device on X50.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''', ''[[Mission 25: Battle for the Moon|Battle for the Moon]]''</ref> | ||
Shortly after the battle, the UNSC discovered a looping transmission of low-frequency static from X50. Palmer and UNSC forces returned to the moon to investigate. However, the UNSC quickly realized that Covenant forces remained on the moon. After fighting through numerous Covenant soldiers, Palmer discovered that the message had originated from Spartan Davis, moments before his death | Shortly after the battle, the UNSC discovered a looping transmission of low-frequency static from X50. Palmer and UNSC forces returned to the moon to investigate. However, the UNSC quickly realized that Covenant forces remained on the moon. After fighting through numerous Covenant soldiers, Palmer discovered that the message had originated from her Spartan compatriot Davis, moments before his death. She shut the device down in order to allow her friend to pass away peacefully.<ref>'''Halo: Spartan Assault''' - ''[[Operation F: Hydra]]''</ref> | ||
{{Spoiler/end}} | {{Spoiler/end}} | ||
===Campaign=== | ===Campaign=== | ||
The [[campaign]] mode is divided into six chapters called "Operations", with five missions each. The [[Cooperative play|co-op]] mode comprises five missions.<ref name="Ellis">[http://venturebeat.com/2013/12/16/halo-spartan-assaults-lead-designer-mike-ellis-tells-us-how-we-can-blast-the-flood-in-co-op-on-xbox-one-interview/ ''Venturebeat'': Mike Ellis interview]</ref> | The [[campaign]] mode is divided into six chapters called "Operations", with five missions each. The [[Cooperative play|co-op]] mode comprises five missions.<ref name="Ellis">[http://venturebeat.com/2013/12/16/halo-spartan-assaults-lead-designer-mike-ellis-tells-us-how-we-can-blast-the-flood-in-co-op-on-xbox-one-interview/ ''Venturebeat'': Mike Ellis interview]</ref> | ||
{{ | {{Levels|HSA|category=no}} | ||
==Gameplay== | ==Gameplay== | ||
===Control input=== | ===Control input=== | ||
[[File:HSA touch input.jpg|thumb|250px|Touch input for ''Halo: Spartan Assault'']] | [[File:HSA touch input.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Touch input for ''Halo: Spartan Assault'']] | ||
As a "twin-stick" top-down shooter title, ''Halo: Spartan Assault'' is developed primarily for touchscreen platforms. The default controls for the game use some of the common control mechanics of touchscreen games: the movement control is located on the left screen whereas the aiming and firing control is located on the right. ''Halo''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s staple abilities, (such as grenade with a single button and using vehicles seamlessly), are readily accessible to the player and are placed next to the aiming and firing controls for ease of use.<ref name="debut">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKjakadAOic '''YouTube''': ''Halo: Spartan Assault - Debut Gameplay Reveal'']</ref> | As a "twin-stick" top-down shooter title, ''Halo: Spartan Assault'' is developed primarily for touchscreen platforms. The default controls for the game use some of the common control mechanics of touchscreen games: the movement control is located on the left screen whereas the aiming and firing control is located on the right. ''Halo''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s staple abilities, (such as grenade with a single button and using vehicles seamlessly), are readily accessible to the player and are placed next to the aiming and firing controls for ease of use.<ref name="debut">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKjakadAOic '''YouTube''': ''Halo: Spartan Assault - Debut Gameplay Reveal'']</ref> | ||
On Windows 8 PCs and tablets, the game can also be played with a mouse and keyboard. Keyboard controls use a standard shooter format: the "WASD" key group controls movement and the mouse is for aiming and firing. On August 29, an update was applied to the game which enables the use of an [[Xbox 360]] controller as well. | On Windows 8 PCs and tablets, the game can also be played with a mouse and keyboard. Keyboard controls use a standard shooter format: the "WASD" key group controls movement and the mouse is for aiming and firing. On August 29, an update was applied to the game which enables the use of an [[Xbox 360]] controller as well.<ref name="debut"/> The console versions of the game feature an altered control scheme in which the player must press the Right Trigger in order to fire weapons; in contrast, the other versions do not distinguish between the "look" and "fire" controls.<ref name="Ellis"/> | ||
{{clear}} | {{clear}} | ||
===Player loadout=== | ===Player loadout=== | ||
[[File:HSA loadout.jpg|thumb|250px|Player loadout]] | [[File:HSA loadout.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Player loadout]] | ||
Players are able to customize their Spartan character's primary and secondary weapon | Players are able to customize their Spartan character's primary and secondary weapon loadout, armor ability, and booster (akin to ''Halo 4''<nowiki />'s a tactical packages and support upgrades) at the start of each mission. | ||
{{clear}} | {{clear}} | ||
===Cooperative play=== | ===Cooperative play=== | ||
The Xbox 360 and Xbox One versions of the game include a two-player online cooperative mode. In this mode two Spartans battle against hordes of [[Flood]] forms across five missions. | The Xbox 360 and Xbox One versions of the game include a two-player online cooperative mode. In this mode two Spartans battle against hordes of [[Flood]] forms across five missions.<ref name="HWP"/> The also mode features never-before-seen weapons and equipment, including [[Unidentified machine pistol|a machine pistol]] (which is [[Dual-wielding|dual-wielded]] like the [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun|M7]]), a [[Slipspace translocation|teleportation]] armor ability, and a what appears to be a "cryo bomb" which emits a cloud that the Flood cannot penetrate.<ref name="Ellis"/><ref name="WP co-op">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/games/halospartanassault/mediadetail?title=spartan-assault-xbox-one-co-op&id=c6a8539d-34ee-4bda-8b0a-a5f1c2615f14&category=Videos '''Halo Waypoint:''' ''SPARTAN ASSAULT XBOX ONE - CO-OP'']</ref> | ||
== | ==Features== | ||
{{col-begin}} | |||
{{col-2}} | |||
== | ===Characters=== | ||
====UNSC==== | |||
*Spartan [[Edward Davis]] {{1st}}<ref name="windows8only"/> | |||
*Spartan [[Edward Davis]] {{1st}} | *Spartan [[Sarah Palmer]]<ref name="official"/> | ||
*Spartan [[Sarah Palmer]] | |||
*[[Roland]]<ref>[https://vine.co/v/hmgIb1VATxb '''Vine.co''' - ''Xbox: Meet Roland, your A.I. guide in Halo: Spartan Assault'']</ref> | *[[Roland]]<ref>[https://vine.co/v/hmgIb1VATxb '''Vine.co''' - ''Xbox: Meet Roland, your A.I. guide in Halo: Spartan Assault'']</ref> | ||
''The following characters are only mentioned in [[Halo: Spartan Assault/Quotes|pre-mission quotes]]:'' | ''The following characters are only mentioned in [[Halo: Spartan Assault/Quotes|pre-mission quotes]]:'' | ||
*Private Aaron Landvik {{ | *Private Aaron Landvik {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Lieutenant Abbi Strand {{ | *Lieutenant Abbi Strand {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Sergeant Albert Sessa {{ | *Sergeant Albert Sessa {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Alexandra Tran {{ | *Private Alexandra Tran {{First mentioned}}<ref name="HSA E3w343">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-14IYU9C3A '''YouTube''' - '' Halo Spartan Assault gameplay w/ 343i employee Jay Frechette (E3 2013)'']</ref> | ||
*Private Amber Penzak {{ | *Private Amber Penzak {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Andy Dimotta {{ | *Private Andy Dimotta {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Lieutenant Benjamin Wallace {{ | *Lieutenant Benjamin Wallace {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Spartan [[Bethany Kossup]] {{ | *Spartan [[Bethany Kossup]] {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Captain Brad Falkenrath {{ | *Captain Brad Falkenrath {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Lieutenant Brendan Hale {{ | *Lieutenant Brendan Hale {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Lieutenant Caitlin De Sauveterre {{ | *Lieutenant Caitlin De Sauveterre {{First mentioned}}<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxIhLBpS6Mw '''YouTube''' - ''PC 1080p | Halo: Spartan Assault Gameplay'']</ref> | ||
*Lieutenant Chandana Pasternack {{ | *Lieutenant Chandana Pasternack {{First mentioned}}<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-u5wo4ZNsLQ '''YouTube''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault Launch Party Demo'']</ref> | ||
*Private Charlie Sultan (ODST) {{ | *Private Charlie Sultan (ODST) {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Christopher Olsen {{ | *Private Christopher Olsen {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Corporal Craig Prinz {{ | *Corporal Craig Prinz {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Dave Moriarty {{ | *Private Dave Moriarty {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Edward Levesque {{ | *Private Edward Levesque {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Lieutenant Elizabeth Kwan {{ | *Lieutenant Elizabeth Kwan {{First mentioned}}<ref>[https://www.youtubhttps://vine.co/v/hmgIb1VATxb.com/watch?v=M9lvzTHSbXg '''YouTube''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault on Surface Pro @E3 2013'']</ref> | ||
*Major Geraldine McNally {{ | *Major Geraldine McNally {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Gerry Payne {{ | *Private Gerry Payne {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Guy Amjad {{ | *Private Guy Amjad {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Lieutenant Han Quigley {{ | *Lieutenant Han Quigley {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Harold Amundsen {{ | *Private Harold Amundsen {{First mentioned}}<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sPpJvbrjQ7I '''YouTube''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault On Surface RT gameplay'']</ref> | ||
*Sergeant Harry Benton {{ | *Sergeant Harry Benton {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Lieutenant Henry Darzi {{ | *Lieutenant Henry Darzi {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Jamie O'Neal {{ | *Private Jamie O'Neal {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Lieutenant Jim Nikolai {{ | *Lieutenant Jim Nikolai {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private John Rosenfeld {{ | *Private John Rosenfeld {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Kelly Tremblay {{ | *Private Kelly Tremblay {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Sergeant Lindsay Asturias {{ | *Sergeant Lindsay Asturias {{First mentioned}}<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DvP7pJhFztI '''Youtube''' ''Halo Spartan Assault Walkthrough - Level A-1 (Part 1)'']</ref> | ||
*Lieutenant Mark El-Hashem {{ | *Lieutenant Mark El-Hashem {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Sergeant Mary Russo {{ | *Sergeant Mary Russo {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Matt Salamanca {{ | *Private Matt Salamanca {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Molly Markozi {{ | *Private Molly Markozi {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Monica Ernst {{ | *Private Monica Ernst {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Captain Nada Rand {{ | *Captain Nada Rand {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Nick Rhee {{ | *Private Nick Rhee {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private First Class Nozomi Li {{ | *Private First Class Nozomi Li {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Lieutenant Patton Liao {{ | *Lieutenant Patton Liao {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Paul Voclain {{ | *Private Paul Voclain {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Peter Zhou {{ | *Private Peter Zhou {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Sergeant Ramone Dakota {{ | *Sergeant Ramone Dakota {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Commander Richard Moe {{ | *Commander Richard Moe {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Rob Petersen {{ | *Private Rob Petersen {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Roger Alfarsi {{ | *Private Roger Alfarsi {{First mentioned}}<ref name="YSAG">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=epVymGith5A '''YouTube''' - ''Halo Spartan Assault Impressions (inc Gameplay) '']</ref> | ||
*Private Samantha Hass {{ | *Private Samantha Hass {{First mentioned}}<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6x_8tkluobE '''YouTube''' - ''Halo: Spartan Assault for Windows Phone 8 @E3 2013'']</ref> | ||
*Lieutenant Sasha Wu {{ | *Lieutenant Sasha Wu {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Lieutenant Scott Pham {{ | *Lieutenant Scott Pham {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Doctor Sheila Nerrivik {{ | *Doctor Sheila Nerrivik {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Lieutenant Stefan Morris {{ | *Lieutenant Stefan Morris {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Lieutenant Tara Nguyen {{ | *Lieutenant Tara Nguyen {{First mentioned}}<ref name="HSA E3">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hYD81rFPuew '''YouTube''' - ''E3 2013: Halo Spartan Assault'' ]</ref> | ||
*Private Tom Siskino {{ | *Private Tom Siskino {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Sergeant Tom Winter {{ | *Sergeant Tom Winter {{First mentioned}} | ||
*Private Victor Quintana {{ | *Private Victor Quintana {{First mentioned}}<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MM3sTiCA12M '''YouTube''' - ''vgBR na E3 2013 - Gameplay de Halo Spartan Assault'']</ref> | ||
====Covenant==== | |||
*[[Merg Vol]] {{1st}} | *[[Merg Vol]] {{1st}} | ||
*[[Parg Vol]] {{Mo}}<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxsYQtltOco '''YouTube''', ''Halo: Spartan Assault Reveal Trailer'']</ref> | *[[Parg Vol]] {{Mo}}<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxsYQtltOco '''YouTube''', ''Halo: Spartan Assault Reveal Trailer'']</ref> | ||
===Equipment and technology=== | |||
*[[ | *[[Artificial intelligence]] | ||
**[[ | **[[Avatar]] | ||
**[[ | *[[Data pad]] | ||
*[[ | **[[UNSC Tactical Simulator]] {{1st}} | ||
*[[ | *[[Hard light]] | ||
*[[Jiralhanae]] | **[[Light bridge]] | ||
**[[Jiralhanae Chieftain|Chieftain]] | **[[Z-90 Photonic Coalescence Emitter/Aegis]] | ||
**[[Jiralhanae Jumper|Jumper]] | *[[Holography]] | ||
*[[Kig-Yar | **[[Holotank]] | ||
**[[Kig-Yar Minor|Minor]] | *[[Jiralhanae power armor]] | ||
*[[Sangheili]] | **[[Jiralhanae Chieftain|Chieftain]] variant | ||
**[[Field Master]] | **[[Jiralhanae Jumper|Jumper]] variant | ||
**[[Sangheili Major|Major]] | *[[Jump pack]] | ||
**[[Sangheili Minor|Minor]] | *Kig-Yar combat harness | ||
**[[Sangheili | **[[Kig-Yar Minor|Minor]] variant | ||
**[[ | *[[Kig-Yar point defense gauntlet]] | ||
**[[ | *[[M2705 Regenerative Kinetic Dispersal Field]] | ||
*[[ | *[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor]] | ||
**[[Unggoy | **[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor (GEN2)|MJOLNIR [GEN2]]] | ||
**[[Unggoy Minor|Minor]] | ***[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Recruit]] | ||
*[[ | ***[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/S variant]] | ||
*[[Overshield]]<ref name="H:SAA">[http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2013/06/11/Halo-Spartan-Assault-Achievements.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Halo: Spartan Assault Achievements'']</ref> | |||
*[[Repel]]<ref name="WP co-op"/> | |||
*[[Sangheili combat harness]] | |||
**[[Field Master|Field Master]] variant | |||
**[[Sangheili Major|Major]] variant | |||
**[[Sangheili Minor|Minor]] variant | |||
**[[Stealth Sangheili|Stealth]] variant | |||
**[[Sangheili Zealot|Zealot]] variant | |||
*[[Seeker Drone]] {{1st}}<ref name="H:SAA"/> | |||
*[[Stun Blast]] {{1st}} | |||
*[[Teleport]] {{1st}} | |||
*[[Type-27 Responsive Holographic Form Emulator]] | |||
*[[Unggoy combat harness]] | |||
**[[Unggoy Minor|Minor variant]] | |||
*[[UNSC Marine Corps Battle Dress Uniform]] | |||
*[[Z-2500 Automated Protection Drone]] | |||
===Events=== | |||
*[[Covenant | *[[Human-Covenant War]] {{Mo}} | ||
**[[Battle of Voi]] {{Mo}} | |||
*[[Reclamation conflict]] | |||
**[[Battle of Draetheus V]] {{1st}} | |||
{{col-2}} | |||
===Locations=== | |||
*[[Draetheus system]] {{1st}} | *[[Draetheus system]] {{1st}} | ||
**[[Draetheus V]] {{1st}} | **[[Draetheus V]] {{1st}} | ||
***[[Epsilon Expanse]] {{1st}} | ***[[Epsilon Expanse]] {{1st}} | ||
***[[Faraday Base]] {{1st}} | ***[[Faraday Base]] {{1st}}<ref name="HSA E3"/> | ||
***[[Red Slate Plateau]] {{1st}} | ***[[Red Slate Plateau]] {{1st}} | ||
***[[X50]] {{1st}} | ***[[X50]] {{1st}} | ||
Line 255: | Line 193: | ||
****[[Glacial Perch]] {{1st}} | ****[[Glacial Perch]] {{1st}} | ||
****[[Mirror Flats]] {{1st}} | ****[[Mirror Flats]] {{1st}} | ||
*****[[Research Facility Alpha]] {{1st}} | *****[[Research Facility Alpha]] {{1st}}<ref name="YSAG"/> | ||
*[[Sol system]] | *[[Sol system]] | ||
**[[Earth]] | **[[Earth]] | ||
Line 267: | Line 205: | ||
**[[The Fort]] {{1st}} | **[[The Fort]] {{1st}} | ||
===Organizations=== | |||
*[[ | *[[Covenant remnants]] | ||
**[[ | **[[Merg Vol's Covenant faction]] {{1st}} | ||
*[[ | *[[United Earth Government]] | ||
**[[ | **[[United Nations Space Command]] | ||
***[[UNSC Defense Force]] | |||
****[[Spartan (branch)|Spartan]] | |||
*****[[SPARTAN-IV Program]] | |||
****[[UNSC Army]] | |||
*****[[23rd Armored Cavalry]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[Special Warfare Command]] {{Mo}} | |||
****[[UNSC Marine Corps]] | |||
*****[[21st Scout platoon]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[Orbital Drop Shock Troopers]] | |||
******[[3rd Helljumper Platoon]] {{1st}} | |||
****[[UNSC Navy]] | |||
===Species=== | |||
==== | *[[Flood]] {{C|Simulation Only}} | ||
*[[Forerunner]] {{C|Mentioned Only}} | |||
*[[ | *[[Human]] | ||
*[[ | *[[Jiralhanae]] | ||
*[[Kig-Yar]] | |||
*[[Sangheili]] | |||
*[[Unggoy]] | |||
*[[Yanme'e]] | |||
*[[ | |||
*[[ | |||
*[[ | |||
*[[ | |||
===Vehicles=== | |||
;UNSC | |||
=== | |||
; | |||
*[[AV-14 Hornet]] | *[[AV-14 Hornet]] | ||
*[[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]] | *[[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]] | ||
*[[D77H-TCI Pelican]] | *[[D77H-TCI Pelican]] | ||
*[[ | *[[M313 Heavy Recovery Vehicle]] | ||
*[[ | *[[M808 Main Battle Tank]] | ||
*[[M9 | *[[M850 Main Battle Tank]] | ||
*[[ | *[[M9 Main Anti-Aircraft Tank]] | ||
*[[Single Occupant Exoatmospheric Insertion Vehicle]] | |||
*{{Class|Strident|heavy frigate}} | *{{Class|Strident|heavy frigate}} | ||
*{{UNSCShip|Eminent Domain}} {{1st}} | *{{UNSCShip|Eminent Domain}} {{1st}} | ||
*{{UNSCShip|Infinity}} | *{{UNSCShip|Infinity}} | ||
;Covenant | |||
*{{Class|CAS|assault carrier}} | *{{Class|CAS|assault carrier}} | ||
*{{ | *{{Class|CCS|battlecruiser}} | ||
*[[ | *[[Orbital insertion pod]]<ref name="HSA E3"/> | ||
* | *[[Type-25 Spirit]] | ||
* | *[[Type-26 Wraith]] | ||
*[[Type-26 Banshee]] | *[[Type-26 Banshee]] | ||
* | *[[Type-29 Shade]] | ||
** | *[[Type-52 Anti-Aircraft Wraith]] | ||
*[[Type-52 Phantom]] | |||
**[[Phantom gunboat]] | |||
===Weapons=== | |||
; | ;UNSC | ||
*[[ | *[[ARC-920|ARC-920 railgun]] | ||
*[[BR85 Heavy Barrel Service Rifle]] | |||
*[[M247T Medium Machine Gun]] | |||
*[[M319 Individual Grenade Launcher]] | |||
*[[ | *[[M41 Light Anti-Aircraft Gun]] | ||
*[[ | *[[M41 rocket launcher]] | ||
*[[ | *[[M45 Tactical Shotgun#M45D Tactical Shotgun|M45D Tactical Shotgun]] | ||
*[[ | *[[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle]] | ||
*[[ | *[[M6H Personal Defense Weapon System]] | ||
*[[ | *[[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun]] | ||
*[[M9 High-Explosive Dual-Purpose grenade]] | |||
*[[MA37 assault rifle]] | |||
*[[ | *[[MA5D assault rifle]] | ||
*[[Unidentified machine pistol]] {{1st}}<ref name="WP co-op"/><ref name="Ellis"/> | |||
*[[ | *[[Napalm grenade]] | ||
*[[ | *[[Sniper Rifle System 99-Series 5 Anti-Matériel]] | ||
*[[ | ;Covenant | ||
*[[ | *[[Covenant automated plasma turret|Automated plasma turret]] | ||
*[[Fuel rod cannon]] | |||
*[[ | *[[Mega Turret]]<ref name="HSA E3w343"/> | ||
*[[ | *[[Type-1 plasma grenade]] | ||
*[[Type-1 energy sword]] | |||
*[[ | *[[Type-2 gravity hammer]] | ||
*[[Type-25 Directed Energy Pistol]] | |||
*[[ | *[[Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle]]<ref name="HSA E3w343"/> | ||
*[[ | *[[Type-25 Grenade Launcher]]<ref name="H:SAA"/> | ||
*[[ | *[[Type-29 Anti-Infantry Stationary Gun]] | ||
*[[ | *[[Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher]] | ||
*[[Type-38 Anti-Aircraft Cannon]] | |||
*[[Type-51 Directed Energy Rifle/Improved]] | |||
*[[Type-52 Special Applications Rifle]] | |||
*[[ | ;Forerunner | ||
*[[ | *[[Z-510 focus turret]] | ||
*[[ | {{col-end}} | ||
*[[ | |||
*[[ | |||
}} | |||
==Development== | ==Development== | ||
===Design=== | ===Design=== | ||
Vanguard Games began development of ''Halo: Spartan Assault'' around April 2012 for the Windows 8 platform, before the announcement of Windows Surface.<ref name="build">[http://www.wpcentral.com/halo-spartan-assault-coming-mid-july-will-include-future-game-updates '''Windows Phone Central''': ''Halo Spartan Assault coming mid-July, will include future game updates'']</ref> During initial development, Vanguard experimented with several prototypes by bringing the traditional ''Halo'' first-person shooter experience to mobile | Vanguard Games began development of ''Halo: Spartan Assault'' around April 2012 for the Windows 8 platform, before the announcement of Windows Surface.<ref name="build">[http://www.wpcentral.com/halo-spartan-assault-coming-mid-july-will-include-future-game-updates '''Windows Phone Central''': ''Halo Spartan Assault coming mid-July, will include future game updates'']</ref> During initial development, Vanguard experimented with several prototypes by bringing the traditional ''Halo'' first-person shooter experience to the mobile platform and found out the gameplay is wholly unsuitable for the platform.<ref name="build"/> The game's AI system is managed by HAVOK, the same AI system management technology used in ''Halo 4''.<ref name="havokai">[http://www.havok.com/news-and-press/releases/halo-spartan-assault '''Havok''': ''Havok’s AI Technology Powering Halo: Spartan Assault on Windows 8 and Windows Phone 8'']</ref> The Microsoft Surface Pro version of the game runs at 60 frames-per-second; the Xbox One versions runs at the same frame rate with a native 1080p resolution.<ref name="Ellis"/> The Windows Phone 8 and PC versions are locked at 30 FPS.<ref name="build"/> The game's top-down view and stylization result in an aesthetic very similar to that of ''[[Halo Wars]]''. | ||
====Sandbox==== | ====Sandbox==== | ||
The [[sandbox]] features weapons, vehicles, and armor styles from throughout the series' past. Most of the UNSC's arsenal from ''Halo 4'' is represented in ''Spartan Assault''; indeed, all but [[M41 Light Anti-Aircraft Gun|one]] usable UNSC weapon comes from ''Halo 4''. | The [[sandbox]] features weapons, vehicles, and armor styles from throughout the series' past. Most of the UNSC's arsenal from ''Halo 4'' is represented in ''Spartan Assault''; indeed, all but [[M41 Light Anti-Aircraft Gun|one]] usable UNSC weapon comes from ''Halo 4''. The Covenant's arsenal is instead an eclectic mix of weapons from previous games, notably featuring the [[Type-52 Special Applications Rifle|focus rifle]] and [[Type-51 Directed Energy Rifle/Improved|plasma repeater]] from ''[[Halo: Reach]]''. Several vehicles and stationary weapons which originated in ''Halo Wars'' are virtually unchanged from their incarnations in that game, aside from improved textures. The Covenant [[Type-26 Assault Gun Carriage|Wraith]] and [[Type-26 Ground Support Aircraft|Banshee]] also appear to use their models from ''Halo Wars'', evidenced by the former's plasma turret and the latter's canard layout. | ||
Aside from [[Merg Vol]], the | Aside from [[Merg Vol]], the Covenant species are based on their appearances in earlier media rather than their ''Halo 4'' incarnations. Specifically, the [[Unggoy|Grunts]], [[Sangheili|Elites]], and [[Kig-Yar|Jackals]] have the physiology of their ''Halo: Reach'' counterparts and wear corresponding armor. The [[Jiralhanae|Brutes]] and Drones are instead represented with their designs from ''Halo 3'' and ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''. | ||
===Integration features with ''Halo 4''=== | ===Integration features with ''Halo 4''=== | ||
The game is closely integrated with the player's experience in ''Halo 4'' where players can unlock experience points, new achievements, and an emblem for their ''Halo 4'' account. | The game is closely integrated with the player's experience in ''Halo 4'' where players can unlock experience points, new achievements, and an emblem for their ''Halo 4'' account.<ref name="official"/> After purchasing the [[Champions Bundle]] Pack or the Bullseye Map Pack, the game will unlock: | ||
*The ''Striped'' (STP) | *The ''Striped'' (STP) skin for the [[M395 Designated Marksman Rifle|DMR]]. | ||
*The ''Vision'' (VISN) skin for the [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/AA variant|Air Assault]] armor. | *The ''Vision'' (VISN) skin for the [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/AA variant|Air Assault]] armor. | ||
*The ''Rush'' (RUSH) skin for the [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/CIO|CIO]] armor. | *The ''Rush'' (RUSH) skin for the [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/CIO|CIO]] armor. | ||
*A new | *A new stance called ''Determined''. | ||
===Title update=== | ===Title update=== | ||
On August 29, 2013, ''[[Operation F: Hydra]]'' was released in the form of a title update. ''Hydra'' includes five new missions as well as five new achievements, worth a total of 50 gamerpoints.<ref>[http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2013/08/27/New-Halo-Spartan-Assault-Achievements-Released.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''', ''New Halo: Spartan Assault Achievements Released'']</ref> | On August 29, 2013, ''[[Operation F: Hydra]]'' was released in the form of a title update. ''Hydra'' includes five new missions as well as five new achievements, worth a total of 50 gamerpoints.<ref>[http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2013/08/27/New-Halo-Spartan-Assault-Achievements-Released.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''', ''New Halo: Spartan Assault Achievements Released'']</ref> | ||
==Soundtrack== | ==Soundtrack== | ||
{{Main|Halo: Spartan Assault Original Soundtrack}} | {{Main|Halo: Spartan Assault Original Soundtrack}} | ||
Line 429: | Line 319: | ||
==Reception== | ==Reception== | ||
{{ | {{Template:HSA Review}} | ||
''Halo: Spartan Assault'' generally received mixed reviews upon release; the game has a weighted aggregate rating of 71/100 on [[Wikipedia:Metacritic|Metacritic]], based on sixteen reviews.<ref>[http://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/halo-spartan-assault '''Metacritic''' - Halo: Spartan Assault for PC Reviews]</ref> Pocket Gamer's Harry Slater and Destructoid's Chris Carter wrote that while ''Spartan Assault'' was not going to be a Windows 8 "killer app", it was a worthwhile purchase for gamers on the Windows 8 platform. Carter stated "Despite its lack of any remarkable or "must have" features, it still manages to be a fairly decent top-down shooter."<ref name="destructoid">[http://www.destructoid.com/review-halo-spartan-assault-258604.phtml '''Destructoid''' - Review: Spartan Assault]</ref> | ''Halo: Spartan Assault'' generally received mixed reviews upon release; the game has a weighted aggregate rating of 71/100 on [[Wikipedia:Metacritic|Metacritic]], based on sixteen reviews.<ref>[http://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/halo-spartan-assault '''Metacritic''' - Halo: Spartan Assault for PC Reviews]</ref> Pocket Gamer's Harry Slater and Destructoid's Chris Carter wrote that while ''Spartan Assault'' was not going to be a Windows 8 "killer app", it was a worthwhile purchase for gamers on the Windows 8 platform. Carter stated "Despite its lack of any remarkable or "must have" features, it still manages to be a fairly decent top-down shooter."<ref name="destructoid">[http://www.destructoid.com/review-halo-spartan-assault-258604.phtml '''Destructoid''' - Review: Spartan Assault]</ref> | ||
Multiple reviewers praised the game for its authentic ''Halo'' look and feel. Kyle Hillard from ''Game Informer'' called ''Spartan Assault'' "a true ''Halo'' game, even if the series’ signature scope and size are scaled down", with the game featuring familiar ''Halo'' moments, enemies, and sounds. Although the game's checkpoint system was criticised, with some critics claiming it to be nearly non-existent. Hillard stated that it was "''Spartan Assault'''s big shortcoming".<ref name="gameinformer">[http://www.gameinformer.com/games/halo_spartan_assault/b/pc/archive/2013/08/07/halo-spartan-assault-game-informer-review.aspx '''Game Informer''' - Review]</ref> ''Spartan Assault'' was criticised for being repetitive, dull and unmemorable. IGN's Dan Stapleton gave the game's [[Xbox One]] version a 5.8 out of 10 rating, stating "The top-down perspective turns the distinctive ''Halo'' arsenal into a bunch of pretty boring guns."<ref name="IGN">[http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/01/11/halo-spartan-assault-xbox-one-review '''IGN''' - Halo: Spartan Assault Xbox One Review]</ref> | Multiple reviewers praised the game for its authentic ''Halo'' look and feel. Kyle Hillard from ''Game Informer'' called ''Spartan Assault'' "a true ''Halo'' game, even if the series’ signature scope and size are scaled down", with the game featuring familiar ''Halo'' moments, enemies, and sounds. Although the game's checkpoint system was criticised, with some critics claiming it to be nearly non-existent. Hillard stated that it was "''Spartan Assault'''s big shortcoming".<ref name="gameinformer">[http://www.gameinformer.com/games/halo_spartan_assault/b/pc/archive/2013/08/07/halo-spartan-assault-game-informer-review.aspx '''Game Informer''' - Review]</ref> ''Spartan Assault'' was criticised for being repetitive, dull and unmemorable. IGN's Dan Stapleton gave the game's [[Xbox One]] version a 5.8 out of 10 rating, stating "The top-down perspective turns the distinctive ''Halo'' arsenal into a bunch of pretty boring guns."<ref name="IGN">[http://ca.ign.com/articles/2014/01/11/halo-spartan-assault-xbox-one-review '''IGN''' - Halo: Spartan Assault Xbox One Review]</ref> | ||
The microtransaction features of ''Spartan Assault'' were generally negatively received. While reviewers such as Destructoid's Carter felt that the microtransactions could be ignored and did not impact enjoyment of the game, | The microtransaction features of ''Spartan Assault'' were generally negatively received. While reviewers such as Destructoid's Carter felt that the microtransactions could be ignored and did not impact enjoyment of the game,<ref name="destructoid"/> Hillard wrote that "it’s hard not to feel as though an important part of the game is being withheld after buying into the agreed-upon price of admission."<ref name="gameinformer"/> IGN's Stapleton stated "the worst thing about Spartan Assault is its obnoxious microtransactions."<ref name="IGN"/> | ||
Jake Valentine from GameZone gave the Xbox One version a less generous 5/10, stating "''Halo: Spartan Assault'' is a soulless, boring, chore of a game. The small glimpses of fun arcade like gameplay are drowned away by frustration and money grabbing."<ref>[http://www.gamezone.com/reviews/2014/01/04/halo-spartan-assault-review-nickel-and-dime '''GameZone''' - Halo: Spartan Assault Review: Nickel and Dime]</ref> | Jake Valentine from GameZone gave the Xbox One version a less generous 5/10, stating "''Halo: Spartan Assault'' is a soulless, boring, chore of a game. The small glimpses of fun arcade like gameplay are drowned away by frustration and money grabbing."<ref>[http://www.gamezone.com/reviews/2014/01/04/halo-spartan-assault-review-nickel-and-dime '''GameZone''' - Halo: Spartan Assault Review: Nickel and Dime]</ref> | ||
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==Trivia== | ==Trivia== | ||
*In terms of platform availability, ''Halo: Spartan Assault'' is the first ''Halo'' game to be released on mobile devices, the first to be released on Xbox One, and the first to be available for download as an Xbox Live Arcade game. | |||
*Despite | *Despite being depicted on the cover art, [[Mgalekgolo|Hunters]] do not appear in the game. | ||
*When shot, the [[Yanme'e|Drones]] make the same noises [[Huragok|Engineers]] make in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'' and ''[[Halo: Reach]]''. | *When shot, the [[Yanme'e|Drones]] make the same noises [[Huragok|Engineers]] make in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'' and ''[[Halo: Reach]]''. | ||
*This marks the first ''Halo'' game in which [[Kig-Yar|Jackals]] use [[ | *This marks the first ''Halo'' game in which [[Kig-Yar|Jackals]] use [[Type-1 Antipersonnel grenade|plasma grenades]]. | ||
*The [[Mission 1: Assault on CF-32|first mission]]'s [[:File:HSA mission overview.jpg|briefing screen]] and the [[:File:Battle for Epsilon Expanse.png|opening cutscene]] for [[Mission 9: Battle for Epsilon Expanse|Mission 9]] depict Unggoy and Sangheili in their ''Halo 3'' likenesses, whereas they resemble their ''Halo: Reach'' counterparts in gameplay. | *The [[Mission 1: Assault on CF-32|first mission]]'s [[:File:HSA mission overview.jpg|briefing screen]] and the [[:File:Battle for Epsilon Expanse.png|opening cutscene]] for [[Mission 9: Battle for Epsilon Expanse|Mission 9]] depict Unggoy and Sangheili in their ''Halo 3'' likenesses, whereas they resemble their ''Halo: Reach'' counterparts in gameplay. | ||
*This one of three ''Halo'' games in which [[John-117]] doesn't make an appearance in any form. The others being ''[[Halo Wars]]'' and ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''. | |||
==Gallery== | ==Gallery== | ||
<gallery> | <gallery> | ||
File:HSA-Logo.png|Title art. | File:HSA-Logo.png|Title art. | ||
File:HSA keyboard.jpg|Control for mouse and keyboard. | File:HSA keyboard.jpg|Control for mouse and keyboard. | ||
File:HSA mission overview.jpg|Mission briefing. | File:HSA mission overview.jpg|Mission briefing. | ||
File:HSA mission outcome.jpg|Mission outcome with scoring detail. | File:HSA mission outcome.jpg|Mission outcome with scoring detail. | ||
File:HSA-Concept-DraetheusV.jpg|Concept art of Draetheus V. | |||
File:HSA-Cinematic-PlanetSurface.jpg|A view of a planet's surface, presumably Draetheus V's. | File:HSA-Cinematic-PlanetSurface.jpg|A view of a planet's surface, presumably Draetheus V's. | ||
File:HSA-Cinematic-Plummet.jpg|A damaged UNSC frigate falling from the sky. | File:HSA-Cinematic-Plummet.jpg|A damaged UNSC frigate falling from the sky. | ||
File:HSA-Cinematic-Palmer.jpg| | File:HSA-Cinematic-Horizon.jpg|The horizon of Draetheus V or its moon. | ||
File:HSA-Cinematic-Palmer.jpg|Commander Sarah Palmer in one of the game's motion comic-style cutscenes. | |||
File:Merg Vol.png|Shipmaster Merg Vol. | File:Merg Vol.png|Shipmaster Merg Vol. | ||
File:HSA-Cinematic-SpartanIV-Recruit.jpg|Davis wearing his GEN2 Recruit armor. | File:HSA-Cinematic-SpartanIV-Recruit.jpg|Davis wearing his GEN2 Recruit armor. | ||
Line 477: | Line 354: | ||
File:Flood city.jpeg|An African city consumed by the Flood. | File:Flood city.jpeg|An African city consumed by the Flood. | ||
File:HSA Flood infesting Earth.jpg|A simulation of Earth being infested by the Flood. | File:HSA Flood infesting Earth.jpg|A simulation of Earth being infested by the Flood. | ||
File:HSA Roland with Flood-infection form.jpg|Roland with a | File:HSA Roland with Flood-infection form.jpg|Roland with a Flood infection form. | ||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
== | ==Note== | ||
<references group="note"/> | |||
==Sources== | ==Sources== | ||
{{ | {{reflist|2}} | ||
==External links== | ==External links== | ||
*[http://apps.microsoft.com/windows/en-us/app/halo-spartan-assault/8fe2d694-baa2-4011-99c0-3a22216223bb The official download site] | *[http://apps.microsoft.com/windows/en-us/app/halo-spartan-assault/8fe2d694-baa2-4011-99c0-3a22216223bb The official download site] | ||
{{ | {{Halo Games}} | ||
[[Category:Halo: Spartan Assault| ]] | [[Category:Halo: Spartan Assault| ]] | ||