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{{Status|RealWorld}} | {{Status|RealWorld}} | ||
{{references}} | {{references}} | ||
{{Under | {{Under Construction}} | ||
{{Game infobox | {{Game infobox | ||
|name= ''Halo 2'' | |name= ''Halo 2'' | ||
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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 | ''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 | 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 | 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]] | 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 | 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 | 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 | 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 {{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]]. | ||
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}} | ||
*[[ | *[[Butkis]] {{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 ( | *[[O'Brien (ODST)|O'Brien]] {{1st}} | ||
*[[Parsons (Marine)|Parsons]] {{1st}} | *[[Parsons (Marine)|Parsons]] {{1st}} | ||
*[[Pascal]] {{1st}} | *[[Pascal]] {{1st}} | ||
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;Sangheili | ;Sangheili | ||
*[[Rtas 'Vadum | *[[Rtas 'Vadum]]ee {{1st}} | ||
*[[Sesa 'Refumee]] {{1st}} | *[[Sesa 'Refumee]] {{1st}} | ||
*[[Thel 'Vadam | *[[Thel 'Vadam]]ee {{1st}} | ||
;Jiralhanae | ;Jiralhanae | ||
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*[[Covenant]] | *[[Covenant]] | ||
**[[Covenant military]] | **[[Covenant military]] | ||
**[[Covenant fleet]] | **[[Covenant fleet]] | ||
**[[High Council]] | **[[High Council]] | ||
*[[Sesa 'Refumee's heretic faction]] {{1st}} | *[[Sesa 'Refumee's heretic faction]] {{1st}} | ||
*[[UEG]] | *[[UEG]] | ||
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*[[Sol system]] | *[[Sol system]] | ||
**[[Earth]] | **[[Earth]] | ||
***[[Mombasa]] {{1st}} | |||
****[[New Mombasa]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[New Mombasa Sector A|Sector A]] {{Fm}} | |||
*****[[New Mombasa Sector B|Sector B]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[New Mombasa City Center|City center]] {{Fm}} | |||
*****[[New Mombasa Docks|Docks]] {{Fm}} | |||
*****[[Section 14]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[New Mombasa industrial zone|Industrial zone]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[Kilindini]] {{1st}} | |||
******[[Kilindini Park Cultural Center]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[Mombasa Tether]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[New Mombasa 105 East]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[Kilindini Underpass]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[Liwitoni Station]] {{1st}} | |||
****[[Old Mombasa]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[Grid Kilo 23]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[Hotel Zanzibar]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[Liberty Street]] {{1st}} | |||
*****[[Mombasa Quays]] {{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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**[[Substance]] {{1st}} | **[[Substance]] {{1st}} | ||
***[[Installation 05]] {{1st}} | ***[[Installation 05]] {{1st}} | ||
****[[Control Room (Installation 05) | ****[[Control Room (Installation 05)]] {{1st}} | ||
****[[Library]] {{1st}} | ****[[Library]] {{1st}} | ||
*****[[Index chamber]] {{1st}} | *****[[Index chamber]] {{1st}} | ||
****[[Quarantine Zone]] {{1st}} | ****[[Quarantine Zone]] {{1st}} | ||
****[[Sentinel Wall]] {{1st}} | ****[[Sentinel Wall]] {{1st}} | ||
****[[Temple (Installation 05) | ****[[Temple (Installation 05)]] {{1st}} | ||
****[[Bastion of the Brutes | ****[[Bastion of the Brutes]] {{1st}} | ||
****[[Jiralhanae encampment]] {{1st}} | ****[[Jiralhanae encampment]] {{1st}} | ||
|title-5=Events| | |title-5=Events| | ||
*[[Human-Covenant War]] | *[[Human-Covenant War]] | ||
**[[Battle | **[[Battle of Earth]] {{1st}} | ||
***[[Battle of Mombasa]] {{1st}} | ***[[Battle of Mombasa]] {{1st}} | ||
**[[Battle of Installation 05]] {{1st}} | **[[Battle of Installation 05]] {{1st}} | ||
| Line 262: | Line 256: | ||
*[[D77-TC Pelican]] | *[[D77-TC Pelican]] | ||
*[[D96-TCE Albatross]] {{1st}} | *[[D96-TCE Albatross]] {{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 | ||
*{{Pattern|Wuzum|Spectre}} {{1st}} | |||
*{{Pattern|Zurdo|Wraith}} | |||
*[[Type-26 Banshee]] | |||
*{{Pattern|Karo'etba|Ghost}} | |||
*[[Banshee]] | |||
;Unusable | ;Unusable | ||
*{{Class|CAS|assault carrier}} {{1st}} | |||
**''[[Day of Jubilation]]'' {{1st}} | |||
**''[[Solemn Penance]]'' {{1st}} | |||
*{{Pattern|Ket|battlecruiser}} | |||
*[[Covenant drop pod]] {{1st}} | |||
*[[ | |||
*[[High Charity]] | *[[High Charity]] | ||
*[[Seraph]] | *[[Seraph]] | ||
** | **[[Kai-pattern Seraph]] | ||
*{{Pattern|Ruwaa|Shadow}} {{1st}} | |||
*{{Pattern|Protos|Scarab}} | |||
*{{Pattern|Kez'katu|Phantom}} {{1st}} | |||
*{{Pattern|R'sisho|Tick}} | *{{Pattern|R'sisho|Tick}} | ||
| Line 328: | Line 311: | ||
*[[M68 Gauss cannon]] {{1st}} | *[[M68 Gauss cannon]] {{1st}} | ||
*[[M90 shotgun]] | *[[M90 shotgun]] | ||
*[[M247 | *[[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 AM 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}} | ||
| Line 346: | Line 329: | ||
*[[Class-2 directed energy cannon]] | *[[Class-2 directed energy cannon]] | ||
*[[Fuel rod cannon]] | *[[Fuel rod cannon]] | ||
*[[Type-1 energy sword]] | |||
*{{Pattern|Anskum|plasma grenade}} | |||
*[[Type-25 plasma pistol]] | |||
*{{Pattern|Okarda'phaa|plasma rifle}} | |||
*[[ | *{{Pattern|Kewu R'shi'k|plasma rifle}} {{1st}} | ||
*[[Type-25 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]] | ||
*{{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}} | ||
*[[Type-33 Needler]] | |||
*{{Pattern|Pez'tk|fuel rod gun}} | |||
*{{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}} | ||
*{{Pattern|Sulok|beam rifle}} {{1st}} | |||
*{{Pattern|Vostu|carbine}} {{1st}} | |||
*[[Scarab Gun]] [[:Category:Easter eggs|Easter egg]] {{1st}} | *[[Scarab Gun]] [[:Category:Easter eggs|Easter egg]] {{1st}} | ||
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*[[Covenant portable shield]] | *[[Covenant portable shield]] | ||
*[[Roadblock|Covenant roadblock]] {{1st}} | *[[Roadblock|Covenant roadblock]] {{1st}} | ||
*[[ | *[[Deployable lookout tower]] {{1st}} | ||
*[[Energy shackle]] {{1st}} | |||
*[[Energy shield]] | *[[Energy shield]] | ||
**[[Sangheili personal energy shield]] | **[[Sangheili personal energy shield]] | ||
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*[[Sentinel manufacturing facility]] {{1st}} | *[[Sentinel manufacturing facility]] {{1st}} | ||
*[[Shield door]] {{1st}} | *[[Shield door]] {{1st}} | ||
**[[Ultra-class armor]] {{1st}} | **[[Ultra-class armor]] {{1st}} | ||
*[[Fusion coil|UNSC fusion core]] {{1st}} | *[[Fusion coil|UNSC fusion core]] {{1st}} | ||
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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 | 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 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/Reuse|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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== 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 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. | ||
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==Marketing promotions and release== | ==Marketing promotions and release== | ||
{{Halo 2 | {{Halo 2 Versions}} | ||
===Announcement trailer === | ===Announcement trailer === | ||
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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 | 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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==Gallery== | ==Gallery== | ||
=== | ===Normal gallery=== | ||
<gallery> | <gallery> | ||
File:EPK H2 | File:EPK H2.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. | ||
File:Halo picture 12.jpg|The ''Halo 2'' main menu screen. | |||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
===Concept art=== | ===Concept art=== | ||
<gallery> | <gallery> | ||
File:H2 ConceptArt MasterChiefTakingCover.png|Concept art of the Master Chief taking cover. | File:H2 ConceptArt MasterChiefTakingCover.png|Concept art of the Master Chief taking cover. | ||
File:H2 SneakyArby.jpg|Concept art of the Arbiter | File:H2 SneakyArby.jpg|Concept art of the Arbiter sneaking up on Master Chief, later included on the [[Halo 3 Zune]]. | ||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
===Promotional material=== | ===Promotional material=== | ||
<gallery> | <gallery> | ||
File: | File:Halo_2_Wallpaper_UNSC.png|A wallpaper used to market the game. | ||
File: | File:Halo_2_Wallpaper.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. | ||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
