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{{Title|''Halo 2''}}
{{Title|''Halo 2''}}
{{Status|RealWorld}}
{{Era|RW}}
{{references}}
{{references}}
{{Under construction}}
{{Under Construction}}
{{Game infobox
{{Game infobox
|name= ''Halo 2''
|name= ''Halo 2''
|image= [[File:Halo2-Cover-Large.jpg|300px]]
|image= [[File:Halo2-Cover-Large.jpg|300px]]
|primary-dev=[[Bungie|Bungie Studios]]
|developer= [[Bungie|Bungie Studios]]
|support-dev=[[Certain Affinity]] {{C|[[Downloadable content|DLC]]}}
|publisher= [[Microsoft Studios]]
|publisher= [[Microsoft Studios]]
|engine=[[Blam engine]]
|writer=[[Joseph Staten]]
|writer=[[Joseph Staten]]
|composer=[[Martin O'Donnell]]<br>[[Michael Salvatori]]
|composer=[[Martin O'Donnell]]<br>[[Michael Salvatori]]
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==Synopsis==
==Synopsis==
===Characters and setting===
===Characters and setting===
''Halo 2'' does not pick up directly after the events of its predecessor, but rather, after the events depicted in the novel ''[[Halo: First Strike]]'', taking place in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' with the events explaining [[John-117|Master Chief]]'s return to [[Earth]] not featured in any game so far. The story dives deeper into the society of the [[Covenant Empire|Covenant]], their goals, beliefs, and alliances, as well as continuing Master Chief's story to put an end to the Covenant threat on Earth as well as [[Installation 05|another Halo]]. ''Halo 2'' also introduces the insectoid [[Yanme’e]] and the [[Jiralhanae]], who were first mentioned in ''First Strike''. They are shown as large, hairy, ape-like beasts; although they do not have [[Energy shielding|energy shields]] like the Sangheili, their immense bulk and strength allows them to absorb a large amount of damage before dying.
''Halo 2'' does not pick up directly after the events of its predecessor, but rather, after the events depicted in the novel ''[[Halo: First Strike]]'', taking place in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' with the events explaining [[John-117|Master Chief]]'s return to [[Earth]] not featured in any game so far. The story dives deeper into the society of the [[Covenant Empire|Covenant]], their goals, beliefs, and alliances, as well as continuing Master Chief's story to put an end to the Covenant threat on Earth as well as [[Installation 05|another Halo]]. ''Halo 2'' also introduces the [[Jiralhanae|Brutes]], who were first mentioned in ''First Strike''. They are shown as large, hairy, ape-like beasts; although they do not have [[Energy shielding|energy shields]] like the Elites, their immense bulk and strength allows them to absorb a large amount of damage before dying.


The game follows a linear series of episodes that differ from ''Halo: Combat Evolved''. The player will play as both the Master Chief and a troubled Covenant Sangheili known as "[[Thel 'Vadam]]".
The game follows a linear series of episodes that differ from ''Halo: Combat Evolved''. The player will play as both the Master Chief and a troubled Covenant Elite known as "[[Thel 'Vadam|the Arbiter]]".


=== Plot synopsis ===
=== Plot synopsis ===
{{Spoiler/begin}}
{{Spoiler/begin}}
[[File:CouncilsScorn01.jpg|thumb|300px|Thel 'Vadamee before receiving the Mark of Shame and becoming the Arbiter.]]
[[File:CouncilsScorn01.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Thel 'Vadamee before receiving the Mark of Shame and becoming the Arbiter.]]
The game begins on [[High Charity]], the mobile capital city of the [[Covenant]]. The former [[Supreme Commander]] of the [[Fleet of Particular Justice]], [[Sangheili Zealot|Commander]] [[Thel 'Vadam]]ee, is on trial before the [[High Council]] for his failure to protect [[Installation 04|Halo]]. Despite his insistence that the [[The Flood|Flood]] hampered his abilities, the [[Hierarchs]] who lead the council, the High [[San'Shyuum|Prophets]] of [[Prophet of Truth|Truth]], [[Prophet of Mercy|Mercy]], and [[Prophet of Regret|Regret]], deem him guilty of failing to protect the Sacred Ring. 'Vadamee is then stripped of his rank and his armor and is branded with the [[Mark of Shame]] by [[Tartarus]], the [[Chieftain of the Jiralhanae]].
The game begins on [[High Charity]], the mobile capital city of the [[Covenant]]. The former [[Supreme Commander]] of the [[Fleet of Particular Justice]], [[Sangheili Zealot|Commander]] [[Thel 'Vadam]]ee, is on trial before the [[High Council]] for his failure to protect [[Installation 04|Halo]]. Despite his insistence that the [[The Flood|Flood]] hampered his abilities, the [[Hierarchs]] who lead the council, the High [[San'Shyuum|Prophets]] of [[Prophet of Truth|Truth]], [[Prophet of Mercy|Mercy]], and [[Prophet of Regret|Regret]], deem him guilty of failing to protect the Sacred Ring. 'Vadamee is then stripped of his rank and his armor and is branded with the [[Mark of Shame]] by [[Tartarus]], the [[Chieftain of the Jiralhanae|Chieftain of the Brutes]].


The story then turns to Earth's [[Orbital defense platform|Orbital Defense Platform]] [[Cairo Station (station)|Cairo Station]], where [[Master Chief Petty Officer]] [[John-117]] receives the new [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark VI|MJOLNIR Mark VI]] armor from the [[Master Gunnery Sergeant (Armory)|Master Gunnery Sergeant]]. [[Avery Junior Johnson]], who recently has been promoted to [[Sergeant Major]], arrives to take the Master Chief to an awards ceremony overseen by [[Fleet Admiral]] [[Terrence Hood]]. At the ceremony, John-117, Johnson, and  [[Miranda Keyes]], [[Jacob Keyes|Captain Keyes]]' daughter, are awarded medals as those in attendance celebrate. The festivities are soon interrupted by [[Cortana]] reporting that "15 Covenant Capital ships holding position just outside the kill zone," signaling the start of the Covenant siege of Earth. UNSC Marine forces, along with John-117, protect the station from the invading Covenant forces while other stations are overwhelmed and destroyed. A bomb is discovered on Cairo station, and John-117 sends it into space. He detonates it, destroying several Covenant ships, before landing on the hull of Keyes' ship, the UNSC frigate ''[[UNSC In Amber Clad|In Amber Clad]]''. The frigate heads to the Earth city of [[New Mombasa]] to fight off the Covenant troops, which are led by the High Prophet of Regret. After the Covenant invasion force is halted by the UNSC defenses, the Prophet of Regret flees Earth with Keyes and her detachment in pursuit on the ''In Amber Clad''. The hasty in-atmosphere jump devastates the city of New Mombasa, destroying the [[Space elevator|Space Elevator]] and scattering its wreckage for miles around.
The story then turns to Earth's [[Orbital defense platform|Orbital Defense Platform]] [[Cairo Station (station)|Cairo Station]], where [[Master Chief Petty Officer]] [[John-117]] receives the new [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark VI|MJOLNIR Mark VI]] armor from the [[Master Gunnery Sergeant (Armory)|Master Gunnery Sergeant]]. [[Avery Junior Johnson]], who recently has been promoted to [[Sergeant Major]], arrives to take the Master Chief to an awards ceremony overseen by [[Fleet Admiral]] [[Terrence Hood]]. At the ceremony, John-117, Johnson, and  [[Miranda Keyes]], [[Jacob Keyes|Captain Keyes]]' daughter, are awarded medals as those in attendance celebrate. The festivities are soon interrupted by [[Cortana]] reporting that "15 Covenant Capital ships holding position just outside the kill zone," signaling the start of the Covenant siege of Earth. UNSC Marine forces, along with John-117, protect the station from the invading Covenant forces while other stations are overwhelmed and destroyed. A bomb is discovered on Cairo station, and John-117 sends it into space. He detonates it, destroying several Covenant ships, before landing on the hull of Keyes' ship, the UNSC frigate ''[[UNSC In Amber Clad|In Amber Clad]]''. The frigate heads to the Earth city of [[New Mombasa]] to fight off the Covenant troops, which are led by the High Prophet of Regret. After the Covenant invasion force is halted by the UNSC defenses, the Prophet of Regret flees Earth with Keyes and her detachment in pursuit on the ''In Amber Clad''. The hasty in-atmosphere jump devastates the city of New Mombasa, destroying the [[Space elevator|Space Elevator]] and scattering its wreckage for miles around.


The story returns to the disgraced [[Sangheili]] Commander, Thel 'Vadamee, who is given a chance for redemption by the High Prophets of Truth and Mercy by taking up the mantle of [[Arbiter]] and the imminent mortality it entails. The new Arbiter becomes the will of the Prophets, seeking redemption by completing seemingly impossible tasks assigned to him. As his first mission as the Arbiter, 'Vadamee is tasked with the assassination of a [[Sesa 'Refumee|Heretic Leader]], Sesa 'Refumee, who has become disillusioned with the Covenant following the events on Installation 04 and its destruction. 'Vadamee tracks the Heretic Leader through the gas mine where the [[Heretics]] sought refuge, battling the Heretics and the Flood along the way. When the Arbiter finally faces the 'Refumee, he asserts his belief that the Prophets have lied about the [[Covenant religion|Great Journey]]. [[343 Guilty Spark]] appears and corroborates 'Refumee's assertion (both Elites consider Guilty Spark to be an Oracle of the [[Forerunner]]s, the ancient race the Covenant hold as gods). Before 'Vadamee can learn more of the claims, 'Refumee attacks 'Vadamee, and the Heretic Leader is killed. Tartarus then appears to extract the Arbiter and Guilty Spark, further preventing 'Vadamee from learning any further information from Guilty Spark. 'Vadamee departs, not learning what caused the Heretics to betray their sacred oaths to the Covenant.
The story returns to the disgraced [[Sangheili|Elite]] Commander, Thel 'Vadamee, who is given a chance for redemption by the High Prophets of Truth and Mercy by taking up the mantle of [[Arbiter]] and the imminent mortality it entails. The new Arbiter becomes the will of the Prophets, seeking redemption by completing seemingly impossible tasks assigned to him. As his first mission as the Arbiter, 'Vadamee is tasked with the assassination of a [[Sesa 'Refumee|Heretic Leader]], Sesa 'Refumee, who has become disillusioned with the Covenant following the events on Installation 04 and its destruction. 'Vadamee tracks the Heretic Leader through the gas mine where the [[Heretics]] sought refuge, battling the Heretics and the Flood along the way. When the Arbiter finally faces the 'Refumee, he asserts his belief that the Prophets have lied about the [[Covenant religion|Great Journey]]. [[343 Guilty Spark]] appears and corroborates 'Refumee's assertion (both Elites consider Guilty Spark to be an Oracle of the [[Forerunner]]s, the ancient race the Covenant hold as gods). Before 'Vadamee can learn more of the claims, 'Refumee attacks 'Vadamee, and the Heretic Leader is killed. Tartarus then appears to extract the Arbiter and Guilty Spark, further preventing 'Vadamee from learning any further information from Guilty Spark. 'Vadamee departs, not learning what caused the Heretics to betray their sacred oaths to the Covenant.


[[File:Regret.jpg|300px|thumb|left|[[John-117|Master Chief]] battles the [[Prophet of Regret]].]]
[[File:Regret.jpg|300px|thumb|left|[[John-117|Master Chief]] battles the [[Prophet of Regret]].]]
Returning to SPARTAN-117's story, the ''In Amber Clad'' exits slipspace with the Prophet of Regret unaware that he had been followed. To the surprise of the pursuers, they discover that Regret has led them to another [[Installation 05|Halo Ring]]. Keyes sends John-117 and ODSTs to the surface of Installation 05 to capture Regret while the ''In Amber Clad'' is repaired. In the course of pursuing Regret, John-117 discovers, with the aid of Cortana, that the [[San'Shyuum]]  intends to personally activate Halo, in the belief that it will propel true believers on the [[Covenant religion|Great Journey]]. To buy time to acquire the [[Activation Index]] before the Covenant are able, Keyes orders John-117 to kill the Prophet of Regret, a mission he successfully achieves. Before making his escape, however, High Charity and its [[High Charity Defense Fleet|escort]] arrive and attempt to kill John-117 by glassing the area. He survives by jumping into the lake surrounding the structure in which he encountered Regret. Incapacitated from the shock of the Covenant bombardment, John-117 is last seen being dragged into the depths of the lake by tentacles belonging to a sentient creature.
Returning to SPARTAN-117's story, the ''In Amber Clad'' exits slipspace with the Prophet of Regret unaware that he had been followed. To the surprise of the pursuers, they discover that Regret has led them to another [[Installation 05|Halo Ring]]. Keyes sends John-117 and ODSTs to the surface of Installation 05 to capture Regret while the ''In Amber Clad'' is repaired. In the course of pursuing Regret, John-117 discovers, with the aid of Cortana, that the Prophet intends to personally activate Halo, in the belief that it will propel true believers on the [[Covenant religion|Great Journey]]. To buy time to acquire the [[Activation Index]] before the Covenant are able, Keyes orders John-117 to kill the Prophet of Regret, a mission he successfully achieves. Before making his escape, however, High Charity and its [[High Charity Defense Fleet|escort]] arrive and attempt to kill John-117 by glassing the area. He survives by jumping into the lake surrounding the structure in which he encountered Regret. Incapacitated from the shock of the Covenant bombardment, John-117 is last seen being dragged into the depths of the lake by tentacles belonging to a sentient creature.


The story now shifts back to the Arbiter on [[High Charity]], in orbit around the ring. The Hierarchs have declared Regret's death to be the [[Sangheili]]'s failure, and the Elites have been removed as the [[Honor Guard of the Covenant|protectors of the Prophets]]. This role has now been given to the [[Jiralhanae]], causing further tension between the Brutes and Elites who were already at odds. Now that the new ring has been discovered, Truth and Mercy query Guilty Spark on how to activate it. They learn of the [[Activation Index|Sacred Icon]] that will light the ring and they dispatch Thel 'Vadamee to recover it. He makes his way through the [[Quarantine Zone]] of Installation 05, fighting scores of [[Flood]] and [[Sentinel]]s, seeking the Activation Index. 'Vadamee arrives at the [[Library]] to find Keyes and Johnson have retrieved the Index from its protective housing. While 'Vadamee fights to take it from them, Tartarus arrives and again intervenes in his task. Upon taking the Index himself, Tartarus reveals the Hierarchs ordered him to kill 'Vadamee and oust the Elites. His treachery revealed, Tartarus knocks the Arbiter down a shaft in the Index chamber to the abyss below.
The story now shifts back to the Arbiter on [[High Charity]], in orbit around the ring. The Hierarchs have declared Regret's death to be the [[Sangheili|Elites']] failure, and the Elites have been removed as the [[Honor Guard of the Covenant|protectors of the Prophets]]. This role has now been given to the [[Jiralhanae|Brutes]], causing further tension between the Brutes and Elites who were already at odds. Now that the new ring has been discovered, Truth and Mercy query Guilty Spark on how to activate it. They learn of the [[Activation Index|Sacred Icon]] that will light the ring and they dispatch Thel 'Vadamee to recover it. He makes his way through the [[Quarantine Zone]] of Installation 05, fighting scores of [[Flood]] and [[Sentinel]]s, seeking the Activation Index. 'Vadamee arrives at the [[Library]] to find Keyes and Johnson have retrieved the Index from its protective housing. While 'Vadamee fights to take it from them, Tartarus arrives and again intervenes in his task. Upon taking the Index himself, Tartarus reveals the Hierarchs ordered him to kill 'Vadamee and oust the Elites. His treachery revealed, Tartarus knocks the Arbiter down a shaft in the Index chamber to the abyss below.


Beneath the Library, John-117 finds himself in the clutches of the [[Gravemind]], the creature that acts as the controlling intelligence of the Flood. It is revealed that Thel 'Vadamee has been saved from his fall by the Gravemind as well. It is within the Gravemind's chamber where the Arbiter and John-117 meet. The Gravemind announces to John-117 and 'Vadamee that he has much to tell them. The Prophet of Regret and [[2401 Penitent Tangent]], the Monitor of Installation 05, appear, both now infected and assimilated into the Gravemind's mass. They argue back and forth before the Gravemind reveals that Regret's "Great Journey" and Penitent Tangent's "Containment" are one in the same. Then both the Gravemind and John-117 try to convince 'Vadamee that the Covenant's belief about the Halos is a lie. They reveal that the Halo installations were created not to save life, but to destroy it, causing the Arbiter to question his faith. These new revelations, paired with the imminent genocide of the Sangheili lead 'Vadamee to reluctantly join John-117 in the mission to stop the ring from being activated. The Gravemind then sends John-117 to High Charity to retrieve the Index while the Arbiter is sent to the [[Control Room (Installation 05)|Control Room of Installation 05]] to stop the Covenant from activating the ring.
Beneath the Library, John-117 finds himself in the clutches of the [[Gravemind]], the creature that acts as the controlling intelligence of the Flood. It is revealed that Thel 'Vadamee has been saved from his fall by the Gravemind as well. It is within the Gravemind's chamber where the Arbiter and John-117 meet. The Gravemind announces to John-117 and 'Vadamee that he has much to tell them. The Prophet of Regret and [[2401 Penitent Tangent]], the Monitor of Installation 05, appear, both now infected and assimilated into the Gravemind's mass. They argue back and forth before the Gravemind reveals that Regret's "Great Journey" and Penitent Tangent's "Containment" are one in the same. Then both the Gravemind and John-117 try to convince 'Vadamee that the Covenant's belief about the Halos is a lie. They reveal that the Halo installations were created not to save life, but to destroy it, causing the Arbiter to question his faith. These new revelations, paired with the imminent genocide of the Elites, lead 'Vadamee to reluctantly join John-117 in the mission to stop the ring from being activated. The Gravemind then sends John-117 to High Charity to retrieve the Index while the Arbiter is sent to the [[Control Room (Installation 05)|Control Room of Installation 05]] to stop the Covenant from activating the ring.


John-117 is teleported inside of High Charity in the middle of a broadcast by the Prophet of Truth. Upon John-117's arrival, Truth and Mercy flee to the [[Anodyne Spirit|Forerunner Dreadnought]], and formally transfer command of the Covenant Military to the Brutes. Before the prophets make it to the ship, however, they are attacked by the Flood, and Truth leaves Mercy behind to die. Meanwhile, John-117 pursues the Prophets. Throughout his pursuit, he kills many Covenant troops, witnesses the [[Great Schism|conflict between the Sangheili and the Jiralhanae]] and saves a group of Marines. At the same time, the Flood, under the control of the Gravemind crash into [[High Charity]] using the ''In Amber Clad''. John-117 finds Mercy being infected by the Flood, and the Prophet tells the Spartan that Truth is going to Earth to "finish what [[Hierarchs|we]] started." Cortana implores John-117 to pursue Truth, but he is hesitant as his mission to retrieve the Index is not complete. Cortana devises a plan to complete his mission by detonating the crashed ''In Amber Clad'' to destroy the ring if it is activated. This plan, however, requires Cortana to stay on board High Charity. John-117 boards the Dreadnought through an energy conduit before promising Cortana that he will come back for her.
John-117 is teleported inside of High Charity in the middle of a broadcast by the Prophet of Truth. Upon John-117's arrival, Truth and Mercy flee to the [[Anodyne Spirit|Forerunner Dreadnought]], and formally transfer command of the Covenant Military to the Brutes. Before the prophets make it to the ship, however, they are attacked by the Flood, and Truth leaves Mercy behind to die. Meanwhile, John-117 pursues the Prophets. Throughout his pursuit, he kills many Covenant troops, witnesses the [[Great Schism|conflict between the Elites and Brutes]] and saves a group of Marines. At the same time, the Flood, under the control of the Gravemind crash into [[High Charity]] using the ''In Amber Clad''. John-117 finds Mercy being infected by the Flood, and the Prophet tells the Spartan that Truth is going to Earth to "finish what [[Hierarchs|we]] started." Cortana implores John-117 to pursue Truth, but he is hesitant as his mission to retrieve the Index is not complete. Cortana devises a plan to complete his mission by detonating the crashed ''In Amber Clad'' to destroy the ring if it is activated. This plan, however, requires Cortana to stay on board High Charity. John-117 boards the Dreadnought through an energy conduit before promising Cortana that he will come back for her.


[[File:D-Halo.jpg|thumb|300px|Installation 05 sending a pulse to signal the rest of the Halo Array to be put on standby for a remote activation from the Ark.]]
[[File:D-Halo.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Installation 05 sending a pulse to signal the rest of the Halo Array to be put on standby for a remote activation from the Ark.]]
Meanwhile, Thel 'Vadamee is teleported to near Halo's Control Room. There he finds many dead Elites, which he has no doubt were killed by the Brutes. With the help of a few deployed Elites, and sympathetic [[Unggoy]] and [[Mgalekgolo]], he fights his way to meet the [[Special Operations Commander]] [[Rtas 'Vadum]]ee, who is surprised to hear that the Brutes murdered the [[Sangheili Councilor|Councilor]]s. Seeing Tartarus land on Halo's Control Room, the Sangheili fight their way to a {{Pattern|Protos|Scarab}}, where Sergeant Johnson is held. Johnson forcefully initiates an uneasy alliance between the humans and the Elites and takes control of the Scarab. With the combined efforts of Johnson and 'Vadamee, the Scarab breaches the Control Room doors by using the Scarab's main energy cannon, and 'Vadamee enters to confront Tartarus. In the Control Room, Tartarus hears the truth of the Halos directly from [[343 Guilty Spark]]. Still blinded by faith, Tartarus forces Keyes to activate Halo. Many [[Sangheili Zealot|Zealots]] and Councilors aid the Arbiter in his final fight against Tartarus, and eventually after a long and tough fight, manage to kill him. Once Tartarus is defeated, Keyes grabs the Index just in time to stop Halo from firing. However, 343 Guilty Spark says that this has activated a failsafe protocol, causing the Installation to send a signal to the rest of the [[Halo Array]], putting them on standby for remote activation from [[Installation 00|the Ark]].
Meanwhile, Thel 'Vadamee is teleported to near Halo's Control Room. There he finds many dead Elites, which he has no doubt were killed by the Brutes. With the help of a few deployed Elites, and sympathetic [[Unggoy|Grunts]] and [[Mgalekgolo|Hunters]], he fights his way to meet the [[Special Operations Commander]] [[Rtas 'Vadum]]ee, who is surprised to hear that the Brutes murdered the [[Sangheili Councilor|Councilor]]s. Seeing Tartarus land on Halo's Control Room, the Elites fight their way to a [[Type-47A Scarab]], where Sergeant Johnson is held. Johnson forcefully initiates an uneasy alliance between the humans and the Elites and takes control of the Scarab. With the combined efforts of Johnson and 'Vadamee, the Scarab breaches the Control Room doors by using the Scarab's main energy cannon, and 'Vadamee enters to confront Tartarus. In the Control Room, Tartarus hears the truth of the Halos directly from [[343 Guilty Spark]]. Still blinded by faith, Tartarus forces Keyes to activate Halo. Many [[Sangheili Zealot|Zealots]] and Councilors aid the Arbiter in his final fight against Tartarus, and eventually after a long and tough fight, manage to kill him. Once Tartarus is defeated, Keyes grabs the Index just in time to stop Halo from firing. However, 343 Guilty Spark says that this has activated a failsafe protocol, causing the Installation to send a signal to the rest of the [[Halo Array]], putting them on standby for remote activation from [[Installation 00|the Ark]].


The Forerunner Dreadnought arrives at Earth with John-117 onboard. He alerts Admiral Hood of his presence, and tells him that he is "[[Halo 3|finishing this fight]]."
The Forerunner Dreadnought arrives at Earth with John-117 onboard. He alerts Admiral Hood of his presence, and tells him that he is "[[Halo 3|finishing this fight]]."
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*[[Avery Johnson]]
*[[Avery Johnson]]
*[[Banks]] {{1st}}
*[[Banks]] {{1st}}
*[[Butkus]] {{1st}}
*[[Butkis]] {{1st}}
*[[Joseph Harper]] {{1st}}
*[[Harper]] {{1st}}
*[[John-117]]
*[[John-117]]
*[[Fones]] {{1st}}
*[[Fones]] {{1st}}
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*[[McKenzie (Marine)|McKenzie]] {{1st}}
*[[McKenzie (Marine)|McKenzie]] {{1st}}
*[[Miranda Keyes]] {{1st}}
*[[Miranda Keyes]] {{1st}}
*[[O'Brien (Mombasa)|O'Brien]] {{1st}}
*[[O'Brien (ODST)|O'Brien]] {{1st}}
*[[Palmer (Marine)|Palmer]] {{1st}}
*[[Parsons (Marine)|Parsons]] {{1st}}
*[[Parsons (Marine)|Parsons]] {{1st}}
*[[Pascal]] {{1st}}
*[[Pascal]] {{1st}}
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;Sangheili
;Sangheili
*[[Rtas 'Vadum|Rtas 'Vadumee]] {{1st}}
*[[Rtas 'Vadum]]ee {{1st}}
*[[Sesa 'Refumee]] {{1st}}
*[[Sesa 'Refumee]] {{1st}}
*[[Thel 'Vadam|Thel 'Vadamee]] {{1st}}
*[[Thel 'Vadam]]ee {{1st}}


;Jiralhanae
;Jiralhanae
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**[[Kig-Yar Minor|Minor]]
**[[Kig-Yar Minor|Minor]]
**[[Kig-Yar Sniper|Sniper]] {{1st}}
**[[Kig-Yar Sniper|Sniper]] {{1st}}
***[[Jha'kaar]] {{1st}}
*[[Lekgolo]]
*[[Lekgolo]]
**[[Mgalekgolo]]
**[[Mgalekgolo]]
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*[[Covenant]]
*[[Covenant]]
**[[Covenant military]]
**[[Covenant military]]
***[[Honor Guard]]
***[[Covenant Special Operations]]
**[[Covenant fleet]]
**[[Covenant fleet]]
**[[High Council]]
**[[High Council]]
**[[Rh'tol]]
*[[Sesa 'Refumee's heretic faction]] {{1st}}
*[[Sesa 'Refumee's heretic faction]] {{1st}}
*[[UEG]]
*[[UEG]]
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*[[Sol system]]
*[[Sol system]]
**[[Earth]]
**[[Earth]]
**[[Africa]] {{1st}}
***[[Mombasa]] {{1st}}
***[[East African Protectorate]] {{1st}}
****[[New Mombasa]] {{1st}}
****[[Mombasa]] {{1st}}
*****[[New Mombasa Sector A|Sector A]] {{Fm}}
*****[[New Mombasa]] {{1st}}
*****[[New Mombasa Sector B|Sector B]] {{1st}}
******[[New Mombasa Sector A|Sector A]] {{Fm}}
*****[[New Mombasa City Center|City center]] {{Fm}}
******[[New Mombasa Sector B|Sector B]] {{1st}}
*****[[New Mombasa Docks|Docks]] {{Fm}}
******[[New Mombasa City Center|City center]] {{Fm}}
*****[[Section 14]] {{1st}}
******[[New Mombasa Docks|Docks]] {{Fm}}
*****[[New Mombasa industrial zone|Industrial zone]] {{1st}}
******[[Section 14]] {{1st}}
*****[[Kilindini]] {{1st}}
******[[New Mombasa industrial zone|Industrial zone]] {{1st}}
******[[Kilindini Park Cultural Center]] {{1st}}
******[[Kilindini]] {{1st}}
*****[[Mombasa Tether]] {{1st}}
*******[[Kilindini Park Cultural Center]] {{1st}}
*****[[New Mombasa 105 East]] {{1st}}
******[[Mombasa Tether]] {{1st}}
*****[[Kilindini Underpass]] {{1st}}
******[[New Mombasa 105 East]] {{1st}}
*****[[Liwitoni Station]] {{1st}}
******[[Kilindini Underpass]] {{1st}}
****[[Old Mombasa]] {{1st}}
******[[Liwitoni Station]] {{1st}}
*****[[Grid Kilo 23]] {{1st}}
*****[[Old Mombasa]] {{1st}}
*****[[Hotel Zanzibar]] {{1st}}
******[[Grid Kilo 23]] {{1st}}
*****[[Liberty Street]] {{1st}}
******[[Hotel Zanzibar]] {{1st}}
*****[[Mombasa Quays]] {{1st}}
******[[Liberty Street]] {{1st}}
*****[[Sector 0-5]] {{1st}}
******[[Mombasa Quays]] {{1st}}
***[[Tanzania]] {{1st}}
******[[Sector 0-5]] {{1st}}
****[[Tanzania]] {{1st}}
*****[[Zanzibar Island]] {{1st}}
*****[[Zanzibar Island]] {{1st}}
******[[Wind Power Station 7]] {{1st}}
******[[Wind Power Station 7]] {{1st}}
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***[[Far Tower]] {{1st}}
***[[Far Tower]] {{1st}}
**[[Lower districts]] {{1st}}
**[[Lower districts]] {{1st}}
*[[Coelest system]]
*[[Installation 05]] {{1st}}
**[[Substance]] {{1st}}
**[[Control Room (Installation 05)]] {{1st}}
***[[Installation 05]] {{1st}}
**[[Library]] {{1st}}
****[[Control Room (Installation 05)|Control room]] {{1st}}
***[[Index chamber]] {{1st}}
****[[Library]] {{1st}}
**[[Quarantine Zone]] {{1st}}
*****[[Index chamber]] {{1st}}
**[[Sentinel Wall]] {{1st}}
****[[Quarantine Zone]] {{1st}}
**[[Temple (Installation 05)]] {{1st}}
****[[Sentinel Wall]] {{1st}}
**[[Bastion of the Brutes]] {{1st}}
****[[Temple (Installation 05)|Temple]] {{1st}}
**[[Jiralhanae encampment]] {{1st}}
****[[Bastion of the Brutes|Bastion of the Jiralhanae]] {{1st}}
****[[Jiralhanae encampment]] {{1st}}


|title-5=Events|
|title-5=Events|
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
**[[Battle for Earth]] {{1st}}
**[[Battle of Earth]] {{1st}}
***[[Battle of Mombasa]] {{1st}}
***[[Battle of Mombasa]] {{1st}}
**[[Battle of Installation 05]] {{1st}}
**[[Battle of Installation 05]] {{1st}}
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*[[D77-TC Pelican]]
*[[D77-TC Pelican]]
*[[D96-TCE Albatross]] {{1st}}
*[[D96-TCE Albatross]] {{1st}}
*[[Drop pod]]
**[[M8823 drop pod]] {{1st}}
*[[GA-TL1 Longsword]] {{c|C709 variant}}
*[[GA-TL1 Longsword]] {{c|C709 variant}}
*[[Hog]] {{1st}}
*[[Hog]] {{1st}}
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**[[Malta Station|ODA-143 ''Malta'']] {{1st}}
**[[Malta Station|ODA-143 ''Malta'']] {{1st}}
**[[Athens Station|ODA-144 ''Athens'']] {{1st}}
**[[Athens Station|ODA-144 ''Athens'']] {{1st}}
*[[Single Occupant Exoatmospheric Insertion Vehicle]]
*[[Tractor unit]] {{1st}}
*[[Tractor unit]] {{1st}}
*[[UNSC frigate]]
*[[UNSC frigate]]
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====Covenant====
====Covenant====
;Usable
;Usable
*[[Spectre]]
*[[Type-46 Spectre]] {{1st}}
**{{Pattern|Wuzum|Spectre}} {{1st}}
*[[Type-26 Wraith]]
*[[Wraith]]
*[[Type-26 Banshee]]
**{{Pattern|Zurdo|Wraith}}
*[[Type-32 Ghost]]
*[[Banshee]]
**{{Pattern|Oghal|Banshee}}
*[[Ghost]]
**{{Pattern|Karo'etba|Ghost}}


;Unusable
;Unusable
*[[Covenant carrier|Assault carrier]]
*{{Class|CAS|assault carrier}} {{1st}}
**{{Pattern|Syfon|assault carrier}} {{1st}}
**''[[Day of Jubilation]]'' {{1st}}
***''[[Day of Jubilation]]'' {{1st}}
**''[[Solemn Penance]]'' {{1st}}
***''[[Solemn Penance]]'' {{1st}}
*{{Class|CCS|battlecruiser}}
*[[Covenant cruiser|Cruiser]]
*[[Covenant drop pod]] {{1st}}
**{{Pattern|Ket|battlecruiser}}
*[[Drop pod]]  
**{{Pattern|Udka|Assault Carapace}} {{1st}}
*[[High Charity]]
*[[High Charity]]
*[[Seraph]]
*[[Seraph]]
**{{Pattern|Kai|Seraph}}
**[[Kai-pattern Seraph]]
*[[Shadow]]
*[[Type-29 Shadow]] {{1st}}
**{{Pattern|Ruwaa|Shadow}} {{1st}}
*[[Type-47A Scarab]]
*[[Scarab]]
*[[Type-52 Phantom]] {{1st}}
**{{Pattern|Protos|Scarab}}
*[[Type-28 Tick]]
*[[Phantom]]
**{{Pattern|Kez'katu|Phantom}} {{1st}}
*{{Pattern|R'sisho|Tick}}


===Forerunner===
===Forerunner===
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*[[M68 Gauss cannon]] {{1st}}
*[[M68 Gauss cannon]] {{1st}}
*[[M90 shotgun]]
*[[M90 shotgun]]
*[[M247 general purpose machine gun]] {{1st}}
*[[M247 machine gun]] {{1st}}
*[[SRS99C-S2 AM sniper rifle#SRS99C-S2|SRS99C-S2 AM sniper rifle]] {{1st}}
*[[SRS99C-S2 AM sniper rifle#SRS99C-S2|SRS99C-S2 AMB sniper rifle]] {{1st}}
*[[Type 14 Magnetic/Anti-Tank Mine]] {{1st}} {{c|Gametype-specific use only}}
*[[Type 14 Magnetic/Anti-Tank Mine]] {{1st}} {{c|Gametype-specific use only}}


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*[[Class-2 directed energy cannon]]
*[[Class-2 directed energy cannon]]
*[[Fuel rod cannon]]
*[[Fuel rod cannon]]
*[[Energy sword]]
*[[Type-1 energy sword]]
**[[Type-1 energy sword]]
*[[Type-1 plasma grenade]]
*[[Plasma grenade]]
*[[Type-25 plasma pistol]]
**{{Pattern|Anskum|plasma grenade}}
*[[Type-25 plasma rifle]]
*[[Plasma pistol]]
*[[Type-25 Brute plasma rifle]] {{1st}}
**{{Pattern|Eos'Mak|plasma pistol}}
*[[Type-25 Brute Shot]]
*[[Plasma rifle]]
**{{Pattern|Okarda'phaa|plasma rifle}}
**{{Pattern|Kewu R'shi'k|plasma rifle}} {{1st}}
*[[Brute shot]]
**[[Jovokada Workshop Brute Shot]]
*[[Plasma Mortar#Type-26 35cm Directed-Energy Mortar|Type-26 Directed-Energy Mortar]]
*[[Plasma Mortar#Type-26 35cm Directed-Energy Mortar|Type-26 Directed-Energy Mortar]]
*[[Shade]]
*[[Type-27 Shade]] {{1st}}
**{{Pattern|Eeo'Pimu|Shade}} {{1st}}
*[[Class-1 directed energy cannon#Type-29 Anti-Infantry Weapon Emplacement/Mounted|Type-29 Anti-Infantry Weapon Emplacement/Mounted]] {{1st}}
*[[Class-1 directed energy cannon#Type-29 Anti-Infantry Weapon Emplacement/Mounted|Type-29 Anti-Infantry Weapon Emplacement/Mounted]] {{1st}}
*[[Needler]]
*[[Type-33 Needler]]
**[[Type-33 needler]]
*[[Type-33 fuel rod gun]]
*[[Fuel rod gun]]
*[[Type-42 plasma cannon]] {{1st}}
**{{Pattern|Pez'tk|fuel rod gun}}
*[[Plasma cannon]]
**{{Pattern|Shepsu|plasma cannon}} {{1st}}
*[[Class-1 directed energy cannon#Type-46 Directed Energy Weapon/Mounted|Type-46 Directed Energy Weapon/Mounted]] {{1st}}
*[[Class-1 directed energy cannon#Type-46 Directed Energy Weapon/Mounted|Type-46 Directed Energy Weapon/Mounted]] {{1st}}
*[[Beam rifle]]
*[[Type-50 particle beam rifle]] {{1st}}
**{{Pattern|Sulok|beam rifle}} {{1st}}
*[[Type-51 carbine]] {{1st}}
*[[Carbine]]
*[[Scarab Gun]] [[:Category:Easter eggs|Easter Egg]] {{1st}}
**{{Pattern|Vostu|carbine}} {{1st}}
*[[Scarab Gun]] [[:Category:Easter eggs|Easter egg]] {{1st}}


;Unusable
;Unusable
*[[Antimatter charge]] {{1st}}
*[[Antimatter charge]] {{1st}}
*[[Class-1 directed energy cannon#Medium plasma cannon (Wraith)|Medium plasma cannon]]
*[[Class-1 directed energy cannon#Medium plasma cannon (Wraith)|Medium plasma cannon]]
*[[Gravity hammer (fiction)|gravity hammer]] {{1st}}
*[[Type-2 gravity hammer]] {{1st}}
**[[Fist of Rukt]] {{1st}}
**[[Fist of Rukt]] {{1st}}
*{{Pattern|Zo'op|Weevil}} {{1st}}
*[[Type-48 Weevil]] {{1st}}
*[[Energy Projector]]
*[[Energy Projector]]
*[[Energy stave]]
*[[Energy stave]]
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;Unusable
;Unusable
*[[Shard cannon]] {{1st}}
*[[Pulse beam]] {{1st}}
*[[Enforcer missile launcher]] {{1st}}
*[[Enforcer missile launcher]] {{1st}}


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*[[Covenant portable shield]]
*[[Covenant portable shield]]
*[[Roadblock|Covenant roadblock]] {{1st}}
*[[Roadblock|Covenant roadblock]] {{1st}}
*[[Covenant watchtower]] {{1st}}
*[[Deployable lookout tower]] {{1st}}
*[[Energy shackle]] {{1st}}
*[[Energy shackle]] {{1st}}
*[[Energy shield]]
*[[Energy shield]]
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*[[Shield door]] {{1st}}
*[[Shield door]] {{1st}}
**[[Ultra-class armor]] {{1st}}
**[[Ultra-class armor]] {{1st}}
*[[Fusion coil|UNSC fusion core]] {{1st}}
*[[Fusion core|UNSC fusion core]] {{1st}}
*[[UNSC Navy uniforms]]
*[[UNSC Navy uniforms]]
**[[UNSC Navy Dress Uniform]]
**[[UNSC Navy Dress Uniform]]
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== Development ==
== Development ==
=== Engine ===
Halo 2 features a modified version of the engine from Halo: Combat Evolved. This new engine featured support for online play via Xbox Live, improved visuals, and the implementation of the Havok physics engine that would replace Bungie's in house physics engine used in Combat Evolved.
Halo 2 was initially meant to implement a new graphics engine called Pstencil that would allow for objects to cast real-time shadows. This lighting technique proved too expensive for the Xbox's hardware to handle, and was only ever seen in the E3 2003 demo of Halo 2. In order to make the demo playable on stage, massive optimization had to be done across the demo map, such as the deletion of objects that were no longer in frame.
=== Gameplay and design ===
=== Gameplay and design ===
In the aftermath of the success of ''Combat Evolved'' in the multiplayer and LAN scene, there was a desire to double down on multiplayer development. The team was also involved in the development of Xbox Live at this point.<ref name = "LikeLaunch">[https://www.gameinformer.com/interview/2020/05/13/what-it-was-like-to-launch-halo-2 '''GameInformer''' - ''What It Was Like To Launch Halo 2'']</ref>
In the aftermath of the success of ''Combat Evolved'' in the multiplayer and LAN scene, there was a desire to double down on multiplayer development. The team was also involved in the development of Xbox Live at this point.<ref name = "LikeLaunch">[https://www.gameinformer.com/interview/2020/05/13/what-it-was-like-to-launch-halo-2 '''GameInformer''' - ''What It Was Like To Launch Halo 2'']</ref>


One of the biggest alterations to gameplay in ''Halo 2'' is perhaps the ability to [[dual wielding|dual wield]] weapons; this tactic allows for twice the firepower at the expense of being unable to throw grenades or [[melee]] without dropping the left weapon. In terms of vehicles, all vehicles from the first game remain except the M12A1 Warthog LAAV (rocket warthog) from the PC version and the [[Dextro Xur-pattern Spirit|Spirit]] dropship. Also, a few new vehicles are introduced. In ''Halo 2'', however, the previously indestructible vehicles can now be destroyed and the player is able to "[[Boarding (gameplay mechanic)|board]]" an enemy vehicle by climbing on and knocking the driver out, as well as planting [[grenade]]s to further damage the vehicle. The same can be done by an enemy to the player when driving.
One of the biggest alterations to gameplay in ''Halo 2'' is perhaps the ability to [[dual wielding|dual wield]] weapons; this tactic allows for twice the firepower at the expense of being unable to throw grenades or [[melee]] without dropping the left weapon. In terms of vehicles, all vehicles from the first game remain except the M12A1 Warthog LAAV (rocket warthog) from the PC version and the [[Type-25 Spirit|Spirit]] dropship. Also, a few new vehicles are introduced. In ''Halo 2'', however, the previously indestructible vehicles can now be destroyed and the player is able to "[[Boarding (gameplay mechanic)|board]]" an enemy vehicle by climbing on and knocking the driver out, as well as planting [[grenade]]s to further damage the vehicle. The same can be done by an enemy to the player when driving.


When playing as the Arbiter, the player's flashlight is replaced with a rechargeable [[active camouflage]] that lasts for ten seconds, giving the player a preemptive advantage on unsuspecting enemies.  
When playing as the Arbiter, the player's flashlight is replaced with a rechargeable [[active camouflage]] that lasts for ten seconds, giving the player a preemptive advantage on unsuspecting enemies.  


The player can have a variety of allies; if they are playing as the Master Chief, they will be assisted by [[UNSC Marine Corps|UNSC Marines]], and occasionally [[Orbital Drop Shock Troopers|ODSTs]]. However, the Arbiter is joined by [[Unggoy]], [[Kig-Yar]], [[Mgalekgolo]], and other [[Sangheili]], allowing for deeper insight into Covenant culture.
The player can have a variety of allies; if they are playing as the Master Chief, they will be assisted by [[UNSC Marine Corps|UNSC Marines]], and occasionally [[Orbital Drop Shock Troopers|ODSTs]]. However, the Arbiter is joined by [[Unggoy|Grunts]], [[Kig-Yar|Jackals]], [[Mgalekgolo|Hunters]], and other [[Sangheili|Elites]], allowing for deeper insight into Covenant culture.


On the damage mechanics, fall damage now has been reduced considerably. The threshold minimum damage has been increased, such as from 3 stories building height will not cause player any damage while on [[Halo: Combat Evolved|the previous game]], it gives the player some damage. The most benefits come from splatter damage as a slight touch from the object now is no longer kill anyone instantly including player (Except some who are designed to be invulnerable). The player now needs more effort to score a splatter kill.
On the damage mechanics, fall damage now has been reduced considerably. The threshold minimum damage has been increased, such as from 3 stories building height will not cause player any damage while on [[Halo: Combat Evolved|the previous game]], it gives the player some damage. The most benefits come from splatter damage as a slight touch from the object now is no longer kill anyone instantly including player (Except some who are designed to be invulnerable). The player now needs more effort to score a splatter kill.
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''Halo 2'' has been the only game in the series to have the most content either cut from the game entirely or redesigned completely as evidenced in many forms of media. In the ''Halo 3'' Essentials disc featuring the "Director's Commentary" of the cutscenes, three separate levels were discussed as having been proposed but ultimately scrapped due to time constraints: [[Covenant Ship]], [[Forerunner Tank]], and [[Forerunnership|Forerunner Ship]]. In the "Making of ''Halo 2''" documentary there was concept art seen regarding a level location [[Installation 00|The Ark]], although the design was later placed into ''Halo 3''<nowiki />'s [[The Storm]] as the [[The Portal|Portal]]. The former could have been a part of pre-production for ''[[Halo 3]]''. Marty O'Donnell was also quoted in a [[Bungie Podcast]] (Episode 13, at 21:00) saying that all the actors had recorded the lines to the original ''Halo 2'' ending and that it still exists today, but he will never show it. The [[Flood Juggernaut]] was a character that was modeled and placed in the coding of the game but never had AI programmed or had been placed on any level, similar to the [[Huragok|Engineer]] in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''.
''Halo 2'' has been the only game in the series to have the most content either cut from the game entirely or redesigned completely as evidenced in many forms of media. In the ''Halo 3'' Essentials disc featuring the "Director's Commentary" of the cutscenes, three separate levels were discussed as having been proposed but ultimately scrapped due to time constraints: [[Covenant Ship]], [[Forerunner Tank]], and [[Forerunnership|Forerunner Ship]]. In the "Making of ''Halo 2''" documentary there was concept art seen regarding a level location [[Installation 00|The Ark]], although the design was later placed into ''Halo 3''<nowiki />'s [[The Storm]] as the [[The Portal|Portal]]. The former could have been a part of pre-production for ''[[Halo 3]]''. Marty O'Donnell was also quoted in a [[Bungie Podcast]] (Episode 13, at 21:00) saying that all the actors had recorded the lines to the original ''Halo 2'' ending and that it still exists today, but he will never show it. The [[Flood Juggernaut]] was a character that was modeled and placed in the coding of the game but never had AI programmed or had been placed on any level, similar to the [[Huragok|Engineer]] in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''.


The head writer for ''Halo 2'' was [[Joseph Staten]]. With the ''Halo 2'' campaign, Staten was interested in expanding the game's scope from solely the Master Chief and humanity,{{Ref/Reuse|vice}} fleshing out the [[Covenant]] antagonists through the perspective of the [[Thel 'Vadam|Arbiter]]. The core idea behind the Arbiter was to create a character who suffered the consequences of the Master Chief's victory in the first game.<ref>'''[[Remaking the Legend]]'''</ref> According to Staten, Bungie co-founder and the game's project lead [[Jason Jones]] was extremely passionate about including two particular scenes that were ultimately cut. In one of these, the Master Chief would be standing on an orbital above Earth and look down on the carnage inflicted by the Covenant, saying "Only blood will pay for this." A similar scene occurs in the final game, at the conclusion of "[[Cairo Station]]", but the quote is absent. Jones also wanted to have [[Miranda Keyes]] play the role of an antagonist and have her betray the Master Chief, strapping a bomb to his back and throwing him down a hole. Staten was not fond of the idea and, though great effort, convinced Jones it would not work in the context of the story.{{Ref/Reuse|vice}}
The head writer for ''Halo 2'' was [[Joseph Staten]]. With the ''Halo 2'' campaign, Staten was interested in expanding the game's scope from solely the Master Chief and humanity,<ref name="vice"/> fleshing out the [[Covenant]] antagonists through the perspective of the [[Thel 'Vadam|Arbiter]]. The core idea behind the Arbiter was to create a character who suffered the consequences of the Master Chief's victory in the first game.<ref>'''[[Remaking the Legend]]'''</ref> According to Staten, Bungie co-founder and the game's project lead [[Jason Jones]] was extremely passionate about including two particular scenes that were ultimately cut. In one of these, the Master Chief would be standing on an orbital above Earth and look down on the carnage inflicted by the Covenant, saying "Only blood will pay for this." A similar scene occurs in the final game, at the conclusion of "[[Cairo Station]]", but the quote is absent. Jones also wanted to have [[Miranda Keyes]] play the role of an antagonist and have her betray the Master Chief, strapping and bomb to his back and throwing him down a hole. Staten was not fond of the idea and, though great effort, convinced Jones it would not work in the context of the story.<ref name="vice"/>


A key theme in the story's development was bringing the war to Earth.<ref name = "LikeLaunch"/>
A key theme in the story's development was bringing the war to Earth.<ref name = "LikeLaunch"/>
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=== Audio ===
=== Audio ===
''Halo 2''{{'}}s audio and soundtrack were directed by [[Bungie]]'s composer, [[Martin O'Donnell]]. [[Jay Weinland]] and [[C. Paul Johnson]] served as the team's audio lead and sound designer, respectively.{{Ref/Book|[[Halo 2 Manual]]|Page=30}} A total of 21,090 lines of dialogue was recorded.<ref>[http://nikon.bungie.org/news.html?item=20971 Halo Dialogue Statistics, from the source] - HBO, November 12, 2007</ref>
A total of 21,090 lines of dialogue was recorded.<ref>[http://nikon.bungie.org/news.html?item=20971 Halo Dialogue Statistics, from the source] - HBO, November 12, 2007</ref>
{{Expand-section}}
{{Expand-section}}


== Multiplayer ==
== Multiplayer ==
[[File:H2 Tombstone Slayer.jpg|thumb|300px|Multiplayer action in ''Halo 2'' on Tombstone: An ongoing Free-For-All battle.]]
[[File:H2 Tombstone Slayer.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Multiplayer action in ''Halo 2'' on Tombstone: An ongoing Free-For-All battle.]]
Unlike its predecessor, ''Halo 2'' allowed players to compete with each other over the [[Xbox LIVE|Xbox Live]] online service, in addition to the originals support for split-screen and System Link multiplayer. ''Halo 2's'' Xbox Live mode offered a unique approach to online gaming that is intended to alleviate some of the problems that have plagued online first-person shooters in the past. Traditionally, one player sets their computer or console up as a game server (or host), specifying the game type and map and configuring other settings. The game software then used a service like Xbox Live or GameSpy to advertise the game to the world at large; other players choose which game to join based upon criteria such as the map and game options each host is offering as well as the [[wikipedia:ping|ping]] times they are able to receive.
Unlike its predecessor, ''Halo 2'' allowed players to compete with each other over the [[Xbox LIVE|Xbox Live]] online service, in addition to the originals support for split-screen and System Link multiplayer. ''Halo 2's'' Xbox Live mode offered a unique approach to online gaming that is intended to alleviate some of the problems that have plagued online first-person shooters in the past. Traditionally, one player sets his or her computer or console up as a game server (or host), specifying the game type and map and configuring other settings. The game software then used a service like Xbox Live or GameSpy to advertise the game to the world at large; other players choose which game to join based upon criteria such as the map and game options each host is offering as well as the [[wikipedia:ping|ping]] times they are able to receive.


In ''Halo 2'', Xbox Live players do not choose to host games, and they do not get to specify individual maps and options to search for. Instead, players sign up for "playlists" that are geared to different ''styles'' of play. For example, the "Rumble Pit" playlist offers a variety of "free-for-all" game types, primarily Slayer or variations there of; "Team Skirmish" offers a number of 4-on-4 team games, which are primarily objective-based games like Capture the Flag; "Big Team Battle Skirmish" is similar to Team Skirmish but allows teams of up to 8 players. Other playlists allow various things such as matches between different [[clans]]. The Xbox Live servers create games automatically from the pool of players that have signed up for each playlist, choosing a game type and map automatically and selecting one player to serve as the game's host. Players can create small "parties" with their friends and enter games together as teammates or, in Rumble Pit, adversaries. They can also play custom gametypes like regular multiplayer. Unranked gametypes allow people on the same Xbox console without an Xbox Live account to play with them as "guests". If the Xbox console hosting the game drops out, the Xbox Live service automatically selects a new host from among the remaining players so the game can continue.
In ''Halo 2'', Xbox Live players do not choose to host games, and they do not get to specify individual maps and options to search for. Instead, players sign up for "playlists" that are geared to different ''styles'' of play. For example, the "Rumble Pit" playlist offers a variety of "free-for-all" game types, primarily Slayer or variations there of; "Team Skirmish" offers a number of 4-on-4 team games, which are primarily objective-based games like Capture the Flag; "Big Team Battle Skirmish" is similar to Team Skirmish but allows teams of up to 8 players. Other playlists allow various things such as matches between different [[clans]]. The Xbox Live servers create games automatically from the pool of players that have signed up for each playlist, choosing a game type and map automatically and selecting one player to serve as the game's host. Players can create small "parties" with their friends and enter games together as teammates or, in Rumble Pit, adversaries. They can also play custom gametypes like regular multiplayer. Unranked gametypes allow people on the same Xbox console without an Xbox Live account to play with them as "guests". If the Xbox console hosting the game drops out, the Xbox Live service automatically selects a new host from among the remaining players so the game can continue.
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==Marketing promotions and release==
==Marketing promotions and release==
{{Halo 2 editions}}
{{Halo 2 Versions}}


===Announcement trailer ===
===Announcement Trailer ===
{{Main|Halo 2 announcement trailer}}
{{Main|Halo 2 Announcement Trailer}}
In 2002, Bungie released the first glimpse of ''Halo 2'' in a pre-rendered CG trailer. The trailer featured the [[John-117|Master Chief]] in his new [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark VI|MJOLNIR Mark VI]] armor preparing for battle in a space station. [[Cortana]] is also heard and has dialogue with the Chief. It also featured Earth and {{Pattern|Ket|battlecruiser}}s in orbit. The UNSC seem to be losing in the battle. The events of this trailer were featured in the final version of ''Halo 2''. Some of the events and dialogue of this trailer was changed to fit the finished storyline of the game. Most of this now appears in the ''Halo 2'' level [[Cairo Station (station)|Cairo Station]].
In 2002, Bungie released the first glimpse of ''Halo 2'' in a pre-rendered CG trailer. The trailer featured the [[John-117|Master Chief]] in his new [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark VI|MJOLNIR Mark VI]] armor preparing for battle in a space station. [[Cortana]] is also heard and has dialogue with the Chief. It also featured Earth and {{Class|CCS|Battlecruiser}}s in orbit. The UNSC seem to be losing in the battle. The events of this trailer were featured in the final version of ''Halo 2''. Some of the events and dialogue of this trailer was changed to fit the finished storyline of the game. Most of this now appears in the ''Halo 2'' level [[Cairo Station (station)|Cairo Station]].


=== E3 2003 ===
=== E3 2003 ===
{{Main|Halo 2 E3 demo}}
{{Main|Halo 2 E3 Demo}}
E3 2003 featured the release by Bungie of footage of a playable in-game demo of the ''Halo 2'' campaign. The demo featured the battle on [[Earth]] in the city of [[New Mombasa]]. [[John-117|Master Chief]], [[Cortana]], [[Avery Junior Johnson|Sergeant Johnson]], [[Perez (Marine)|Corporal Perez]], [[Easley|Major Easley]], and [[Banks|Sergeant Banks]] were all seen/heard in the demo. The demo showed off new features like Dual-Wielding (the [[John-117|Master Chief]] could actually keep both his dual-wielded weapons when he switched to his secondary sidearm; this was changed for the final product), Vehicle Damage, and Boarding. Three new vehicles shown were the [[M12G1 Light Anti-Armor Vehicle|Gauss Warthog]], {{Pattern|Ruwaa|Shadow}}, and the Covenant [[Kez'katu-pattern Phantom|Phantom]], which at the time had only one plasma turret on its underside instead of three.  
E3 2003 featured the release by Bungie of footage of a playable in-game demo of the ''Halo 2'' campaign. The demo featured the battle on [[Earth]] in the city of [[New Mombasa]]. [[John-117|Master Chief]], [[Cortana]], [[Avery Junior Johnson|Sergeant Johnson]], [[Perez (Marine)|Corporal Perez]], [[Easley|Major Easley]], and [[Banks|Sergeant Banks]] were all seen/heard in the demo. The demo showed off new features like Dual-Wielding (the [[John-117|Master Chief]] could actually keep both his dual-wielded weapons when he switched to his secondary sidearm; this was changed for the final product), Vehicle Damage, and Boarding. Three new vehicles shown were the [[M12G1 Light Anti-Armor Vehicle|Gauss Warthog]], [[Type-29 Shadow]], and the Covenant [[Type-52 Troop Carrier|Phantom]], which at the time had only one plasma turret on its underside instead of three.  


Returning vehicles featured the [[Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle|Ghost]], [[Pelican]], [[Covenant cruiser|Covenant Cruiser]], and [[GA-TL1 Longsword|Longsword]] Fighters. New weapons the [[BR55 Battle Rifle|Battle Rifle]], [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun|SMG]], and [[Type-25 Grenade Launcher|Brute Shot]] were also shown, although the final Brute Shot design for ''Halo 2'' was vastly different from what was shown in this trailer. New enemies such as the Brutes were shown in this demo, but as a secondary warrior race by the side of the Elites. The events of this demo were featured in the final version of ''Halo 2''. Some of the events and dialog of this demo was changed to fit the finished storyline of the game, such as the AA Gun becoming a Scarab. Most of this now appears in the ''Halo 2'' level; [[Metropolis]].
Returning vehicles featured the [[Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle|Ghost]], [[Pelican]], [[Covenant cruiser|Covenant Cruiser]], and [[GA-TL1 Longsword|Longsword]] Fighters. New weapons the [[BR55 Battle Rifle|Battle Rifle]], [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun|SMG]], and [[Type-25 Grenade Launcher|Brute Shot]] were also shown, although the final Brute Shot design for ''Halo 2'' was vastly different than what was shown in this trailer. New enemies such as the Brutes were shown in this demo, but as a secondary warrior race by the side of the Elites. The events of this demo were featured in the final version of ''Halo 2''. Some of the events and dialog of this demo was changed to fit the finished storyline of the game, such as the AA Gun becoming a Scarab. Most of this now appears in the ''Halo 2'' level; [[Metropolis]].


===Halo 2 Council===
===Halo 2 Council===
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=== E3 2004 ===
=== E3 2004 ===
{{Main|Halo 2 E3 Multiplayer Demo}}
{{Main|Halo 2 E3 Multiplayer Demo}}
''Halo 2'' also had a significant presence at E3 2004 (May 11–13, 2004). On May 8, Microsoft held a preview event in a private home in Beverley Hills, California, which had been transformed into a replica of "the stunning futuristic world of Halo, complete with camouflaged marines and roaming Cortanas." It was attended by the members of the ''Halo 2'' Council, as well as well-known celebrities of the time such as Joe Reitman, Jolene Blalock, Andrew Keegan, Jordana Brewster, Bai Ling, Ben Foster, Kelly Hu, Kyle Boller, Laura Prepon, Brad Bufanda, Lindsay Lohan, Breckin Meyer, Luke Walton, Michelle Rodriguez, Chris Masterson, Danny Masterson, Rick Yune, Good Charlotte, Ryan Phillipe, Gregory Smith, Shannon Elizabeth, Taryn Manning, and Tara Reid.{{Ref/Reuse|H2Council}}
''Halo 2'' also had a significant presence at E3 2004 (May 11–13, 2004). On May 8, Microsoft held a preview event in a private home in Beverley Hills, California, which had been transformed into a replica of "the stunning futuristic world of Halo, complete with camouflaged marines and roaming Cortanas." It was attended by the members of the ''Halo 2'' Council, as well as well-known celebrities of the time such as Joe Reitman, Jolene Blalock, Andrew Keegan, Jordana Brewster, Bai Ling, Ben Foster, Kelly Hu, Kyle Boller, Laura Prepon, Brad Bufanda, Lindsay Lohan, Breckin Meyer, Luke Walton, Michelle Rodriguez, Chris Masterson, Danny Masterson, Rick Yune, Good Charlotte, Ryan Phillipe, Gregory Smith, Shannon Elizabeth, Taryn Manning, and Tara Reid.<ref name="H2Council"/>


During the event itself, ''Halo 2'' held a central position in Microsoft's showcase. At the pre-event Xbox conference on May 10, Bungie released footage of a playable in-game demo of the ''Halo 2'' multiplayer. The demo featured the multiplayer map [[Zanzibar]] and displayed playable character models the [[SPARTAN-II]] model and the [[Sangheili]] model. It also showed off some of the weaponry of the game and some special features. The [[BR55 Battle Rifle|Battle Rifle]], [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun|SMG]], [[Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher|Needler]], [[M19 SSM Rocket Launcher|Rocket Launcher]], and [[Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword|Energy Sword]] were displayed. The Gauss Warthog and the Ghost also made an appearance. Some features included the lock-on feature of the Rocket Launcher, the Dual-Wielding ability, Explosive Barrels, Ghost's boosting, vehicle boarding, Warthogs horn and Gauss Cannon and Sword Lunging. The demo also featured the official announcement of the release date, November 9, 2004.<ref>[http://archive.videogamesdaily.com/news/200405/033.asp '''Kikizo.com''' ''E3 2004: Xbox Conference: Full Report'']</ref> After the demo's public unveiling, fans were allowed to try it out for themselves throughout the Expo on the showfloor.<ref>[http://archive.videogamesdaily.com/news/200405/046.asp '''Kikizo.com''' ''E3 2004: Halo 2 Hands-On, Screens, Vids'']</ref>
During the event itself, ''Halo 2'' held a central position in Microsoft's showcase. At the pre-event Xbox conference on May 10, Bungie released footage of a playable in-game demo of the ''Halo 2'' multiplayer. The demo featured the multiplayer map [[Zanzibar]] and displayed playable character models the [[SPARTAN-II]] model and the [[Sangheili]] model. It also showed off some of the weaponry of the game and some special features. The [[BR55 Battle Rifle|Battle Rifle]], [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun|SMG]], [[Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher|Needler]], [[M19 SSM Rocket Launcher|Rocket Launcher]], and [[Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword|Energy Sword]] were displayed. The Gauss Warthog and the Ghost also made an appearance. Some features included the lock-on feature of the Rocket Launcher, the Dual-Wielding ability, Explosive Barrels, Ghost's boosting, vehicle boarding, Warthogs horn and Gauss Cannon and Sword Lunging. The demo also featured the official announcement of the release date, November 9, 2004.<ref>[http://archive.videogamesdaily.com/news/200405/033.asp '''Kikizo.com''' ''E3 2004: Xbox Conference: Full Report'']</ref> After the demo's public unveiling, fans were allowed to try it out for themselves throughout the Expo on the showfloor.<ref>[http://archive.videogamesdaily.com/news/200405/046.asp '''Kikizo.com''' ''E3 2004: Halo 2 Hands-On, Screens, Vids'']</ref>
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===Halo2.com===
===Halo2.com===
{{Main|Halo2.com}}
{{Main|Halo2.com}}
[https://web.archive.org/web/20040601000000*/http://Halo2.com Halo2.com] was the promotional website registered by Microsoft for ''Halo 2''. It first went live on May 11,<ref>[http://halo.bungie.org/news.html?item=9441 '''halo.bungie.org''' ''Halo2.com Goes Live'']</ref> and had national or regional variants, such as the Australian site (www.halo2.com.au/).<ref>[http://halo.bungie.org/news.html?item=10640 '''halo.bungie.org''' ''Aussie Halo 2 site a wealth of info'']</ref> Initially, it consisted of a straightforward promotional site, featuring screenshots, wallpapers, videos, and news.<ref>[http://halo.bungie.org/news.html?item=9792 '''halo.bungie.org''' ''Halo2.com gets updated'']</ref> Later, it was relaunched by [[Wikipedia:AKQA|AKQA]] on October 15, expanded and updated with a Covenant theme and tied to the [[i love bees]] alternate reality game.<ref>[http://halo.bungie.org/news.html?item=10870 '''halo.bungie.org''' ''Halo2.com has relaunched'']</ref> After ''Halo 2''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s release, it was merged with the official Xbox site.
[https://web.archive.org/web/20040601000000*/http://Halo2.com Halo2.com] was the promotional website registered by Microsoft for ''Halo 2''. It first went live on May 11,<ref>[http://halo.bungie.org/news.html?item=9441 '''halo.bungie.org''' ''Halo2.com Goes Live'']</ref> and had national or regional varients, such as the Australian site (www.halo2.com.au/).<ref>[http://halo.bungie.org/news.html?item=10640 '''halo.bungie.org''' ''Aussie Halo 2 site a wealth of info'']</ref> Initially, it consisted of a straightforward promotional site, featuring screenshots, wallpapers, videos, and news.<ref>[http://halo.bungie.org/news.html?item=9792 '''halo.bungie.org''' ''Halo2.com gets updated'']</ref> Later, it was relaunched by [[Wikipedia:AKQA|AKQA]] on October 15, expanded and updated with a Covenant theme and tied to the [[i love bees]] alternate reality game.<ref>[http://halo.bungie.org/news.html?item=10870 '''halo.bungie.org''' ''Halo2.com has relaunched'']</ref> After ''Halo 2''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s release, it was merged with the official Xbox site.


=== i love bees ===
=== i love bees ===
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===Cinematic trailer===
===Cinematic trailer===
{{Main|Halo 2 theatrical trailer}}
{{Main|Halo 2 Cinematic Trailer}}
In October 2004, a short trailer for ''Halo 2'' was shown in movie theaters and cinemas throughout the United States. It featured short clips of game play, some newly rendered scenes, as well as materials recycled from the E3 2003 demo. The trailer also featured a brief promotion of i love bees.
In October 2004, a short trailer for ''Halo 2'' was shown in movie theaters and cinemas throughout the United States. It featured short clips of game play, some newly rendered scenes, as well as materials recycled from the E3 2003 demo. The trailer also featured a brief promotion of i love bees.


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==Soundtrack==
==Soundtrack==
{{Main|Halo 2: Original Soundtrack}}
{{Main|Halo 2: Original Soundtrack}}
There are two volumes of the ''Halo 2'' soundtrack, one released alongside the game, and the other released in Early 2006. You can usually find them at any retail store that sells music or games, or eBay.
There are two volumes of the ''Halo 2'' soundtrack, one released alongside the game, and the other released in Early 2006. You can usually find them at any retail store that sells music or games, or Ebay.


==Reception==
==Reception==
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==Trivia==
==Trivia==
*Originally, there were to be several kinds of [[M12 Force Application Vehicle|Warthog]]s including an Arctic model (which was included in the ''Halo 3'' DLC multiplayer map Avalanche), a transport vehicle and a small ATV (known as the [[M274 Ultra-Light All-Terrain Vehicle|Mongoose]] in ''Halo 3'') would make an appearance. These were all cut from the final version of the game. However, in ''Halo: Custom Edition'', fans created the arctic and transport warthogs, as well as the civilian Warthog featured in the multi-player map Headlong. A rocket Warthog was included in ''Halo PC'' and the ATV and variations of the Warthog appear in ''Halo 3''.
* Originally, there were to be several kinds of [[M12 Force Application Vehicle|Warthog]]s including an Arctic model (which was included in the ''Halo 3'' DLC multiplayer map Avalanche), a transport vehicle and a small ATV (known as the [[M274 Ultra-Light All-Terrain Vehicle|Mongoose]] in ''Halo 3'') would make an appearance. These were all cut from the final version of the game. However, in ''Halo: Custom Edition'', fans created the arctic and transport warthogs, as well as the civilian Warthog featured in the multi-player map Headlong. A rocket Warthog was included in ''Halo PC'' and the ATV and variations of the Warthog appear in ''Halo 3''.
*[[Jason Jones]] is known for establishing the quote: "''Halo 2'' is a lot like ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved|Halo 1]]'', only it's ''Halo 1'' on fire, going 130 miles per hour through a hospital zone, being chased by helicopters and ninjas. And, the ninjas are all on fire, too." This led to the famous line of inside jokes, patches and t-shirts, user names, and memes of flaming ninjas.<ref>[http://xbox.gamespy.com/xbox/halo-2/528851p1.html Gamespy's Halo 2: Everything We Know article]</ref>
* [[Jason Jones]] is known for establishing the quote: "''Halo 2'' is a lot like ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved|Halo 1]]'', only it's ''Halo 1'' on fire, going 130 miles per hour through a hospital zone, being chased by helicopters and ninjas. And, the ninjas are all on fire, too." This led to the famous line of inside jokes, patches and t-shirts, user names, and memes of flaming ninjas.<ref>[http://xbox.gamespy.com/xbox/halo-2/528851p1.html Gamespy's Halo 2: Everything We Know article]</ref>
*In the final days prior to the deactivation of ''Halo 2''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s multiplayer, Bungie added new sayings to the ''Did You Know?'' section of the lobby including messages of thanks to ''Halo 2'' fans for staying supportive for the half decade that it was active and hints about ''[[Halo: Reach]]'''s gameplay. Many of these were worded in a humorous manner, though several were outright jokes.
* In the final days prior to the deactivation of ''Halo 2''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s multiplayer, Bungie added new sayings to the ''Did You Know?'' section of the lobby including messages of thanks to ''Halo 2'' fans for staying supportive for the half decade that it was active and hints about ''[[Halo: Reach]]'''s gameplay. Many of these were worded in a humorous manner, though several were outright jokes.
*''Halo 2'' has been played for about 100 million hours on Xbox since its release.
* ''Halo 2'' has been played for about 100 million hours on Xbox since its release.
*Players who played this game with their current LIVE account before April 14, 2010 will unlock the ''Halo 2'' [[Nameplates|Visual Flair]] in ''Halo: Reach''.<ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_082010 '''Bungie.net''': ''Express Yourself'']</ref>
* Players who played this game with his or her current LIVE account before April 14, 2010 will unlock the ''Halo 2'' [[Nameplates|Visual Flair]] in ''Halo: Reach''.<ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_082010 '''Bungie.net''': ''Express Yourself'']</ref>
*The ''[[Hunt the Truth]]'' marketing campaign for ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'' reveals that ''Halo 2'''s cover art is based on an in-universe photograph taken by [[Benjamin Giraud]] during the [[Battle of Mombasa]].
*The ''[[Hunt the Truth]]'' marketing campaign for ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'' reveals that ''Halo 2'''s cover art is based on an in-universe photograph taken by [[Benjamin Giraud]] during the [[Battle of Mombasa]].


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
===Cover art===
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:EPK H2.png|Icon art.
File:H2 Title Art.png|Title art.
File:Halo2-Xbox-GameCover.jpg|Full game cover for ''Halo 2''.
File:Halo2-Xbox-GameCover.jpg|Full game cover for ''Halo 2''.
File:Masterchief with sniper.jpg|Full screenshot featured on the back cover.
File:Masterchief with sniper.jpg|Full screenshot featured on the back cover.
</gallery>
File:Halo_2_Wallpaper_UNSC.png|A wallpaper used to market the game.
 
File:Halo_2_Wallpaper.png|Another wallpaper used to market the game.
===Concept art===
<gallery>
File:H2 ConceptArt MasterChiefTakingCover.png|Concept art of the Master Chief taking cover.
File:H2 SneakyArby.jpg|Concept art of the Arbiter and the Master Chief, later included on the [[Halo 3 Zune]].
File:H2 InteriorConstructControlRoom Concept.jpg|Concept art of a control room.
File:H2 MachineDrivingComponent Concept.jpg|Concept art of a machine.
</gallery>
 
===Promotional material===
<gallery>
File:H2 Wallpaper Master Chief and ODST.png|A wallpaper used to market the game.
File:H2 Wallpaper Tartarus and Brutes.png|Another wallpaper used to market the game.
File:Halo 2 028.jpg|Artwork featuring the Master Chief during the Battle of Mombasa.
File:Halo 2 028.jpg|Artwork featuring the Master Chief during the Battle of Mombasa.
File:H2 Chief EGM.png|EGM cover by Craig Mullins.
File:H2 Chief EGM.png|EGM cover by Craig Mullins.
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File:H2 OXM Cover.jpg|Another OXM cover.
File:H2 OXM Cover.jpg|Another OXM cover.
File:H2_EdgeCover_Concept.jpg|EDGE cover by Eddie Smith.
File:H2_EdgeCover_Concept.jpg|EDGE cover by Eddie Smith.
File:H2 BrigadeDamaged.jpg|"Brigade Damaged" by Zoé Brawley.
File:H2 ConceptArt MasterChiefTakingCover.png|Concept art of John-117 taking cover.
File:H2 BrigadeDamaged Wide.jpg|A larger version "Brigade Damaged."
</gallery>
 
===Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:Halo picture 12.jpg|The ''Halo 2'' main menu screen.
File:Halo picture 12.jpg|The ''Halo 2'' main menu screen.
File:H2 mchief cortana.jpg|John-117 and Cortana onboard ''Cairo Station''.
File:UNSCDF.jpg|Lord Hood meeting John-117 and Avery Johnson.
File:Unsc convoy.jpg|A UNSC convoy made up of Pelicans and Warthogs.
File:Brutesarbiter.jpg|Tartarus and his Jiralhanae carry Thel 'Vadamee past a group of Honor Guards.
File:Arby helmet.jpg|Thel 'Vadamee takes on the title of Arbiter.
File:GS-Heretic.jpg|343 Guilty Spark and Sesa 'Refumee, the leader of a heretic faction.
File:Deltahalo.jpg|The UNSC ''In Amber Clad'' approaches Installation 05.
File:Goingtoactivatehalo.JPG|John-117 standing in front of a hologram of Prophet of Regret.
File:Rally.jpg|Rtas 'Vadumee rallies his Sangheili.
</gallery>
===20th anniversary artwork===
<gallery>
File:H2 UpperDeck HereticAndHero.png|Official art by Victor Sales  titled "Heretic & Hero" celebrating the game's 20th anniversary.
File:H2 UpperDeck HereticAndHero1.jpg|An initial sketch of the artwork.
File:H2 UpperDeck HereticAndHero2.jpg|The approved sketch of the artwork.
File:H2 UpperDeck HereticAndHero3.jpg|An early colored version of the artwork.
File:H2 UpperDeck HereticAndHero4.jpg|Another work-in-progress iteration of the artwork.
File:H2 UpperDeck HereticAndHero5.jpg|Another work-in-progress iteration of the artwork.
File:H2 UpperDeck HereticAndHero6.jpg|A near-final iteration of the artwork.
File:H2 UpperDeck DemonAndDisgraced.png|Official art by Victor Sales titled "Demon & Disgraced" celebrating the game's 20th anniversary.
File:H2 UpperDeck DemonAndDisgraced1.jpg|An initial sketch of the artwork.
File:H2 UpperDeck DemonAndDisgraced2.jpg|The approved sketch of the artwork.
File:H2 UpperDeck DemonAndDisgraced3.jpg|An early colored version of the artwork.
File:H2 UpperDeck DemonAndDisgraced4.jpg|Another work-in-progress iteration of the artwork.
File:H2 UpperDeck DemonAndDisgraced5.jpg|A near-final iteration of the artwork.
</gallery>
</gallery>


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


==See also==
== See also ==
*[[Halo 2 credits|''Halo 2'' Credits]]
*[[Halo 2 credits|''Halo 2'' Credits]]
*[[List of Halo 2 Did You Know? quotes]]
*[[List of Halo 2: Did You Know? Quotes]]
*[[Early Halo 2 script|Early ''Halo 2'' Script]]
*[[Early Halo 2 script|Early ''Halo 2'' Script]]
*[[Halo2.com]]
*[[Halo2.com]]
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{{Navbox/Media/Games}}
{{Navbox/Media/Games}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:2, Halo}}
[[Category:Video games]]
[[Category:Halo 2| ]]
[[Category:Halo 2| ]]
[[Category:Canon]]
[[Category:Canon]]
[[Category:Bungie games]]

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