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{{Title|''Halo 3''}}
{{era|H3}}
{{Status|RealWorld}}
{{Ratings}}                        
{{References}}
{{Game Info Box                     
{{Game infobox
|name=''Halo 3''
|name= ''Halo 3''
|image=HALO 3 BOXART.jpg
|image= [[File:Halo3coverart.JPG|300px]]
|Developer=[[Bungie Studios|Bungie LLC.]]
|developer= [[Bungie|Bungie LLC.]]
|Publisher= [[wikipedia:Microsoft Game Studios|Microsoft Game Studios]]
|publisher= [[Microsoft Game Studios]]
|US Date Released= September 25, 2007
|engine=[[Blam engine]]
|MX Date Released= September 25, 2007
|writer=[[Joseph Staten]]
|UK Date Released= September 26, 2007              
|composer=[[Martin O'Donnell]]<br>[[Michael Salvatori]]
|Genre= [[First-person shooter]]            
|platform= [[Xbox 360]]<br>[[Xbox One]]<br>PC
|Game modes=[[Campaign Mode]], [[Multiplayer]], [[Forge]], [[Theater]], [[Co-Op]] ,
|releasedate= September 25, 2007 {{C|United States}}<br>
|ESRB= Mature (M) for Blood and Gore, Mild Language, and Violence
September 26, 2007 {{C|United Kingdom}}<br>
|Platform=[[Xbox 360]]                  
September 27, 2007 {{C|Japan}}<br>
|Media=DL-DVD
November 14, 2014 {{C|Halo: The Master Chief Collection on Xbox One}}<br>
|Current Version=1.2
July 13, 2020 {{C|Halo: The Master Chief Collection on PC}}
|Website=[http://www.halo3.com halo3.com]
|genre= [[First-person shooter]]
|modes= [[Campaign|Campaign Mode]], [[Cooperative Play|Co-Op]], [[Multiplayer]], [[Forge]], [[Theater]]
|rating=[[Wikipedia:Entertainment Software Ratings Board|ESRB]]: Mature (M) for Blood and Gore, Mild Language, and Violence<br>
[[Wikipedia:Computer Entertainment Rating Organization|CERO]]: (D) Ages 17 and up<br>
[[Wikipedia:Pan European Game Information|PEGI]]: 16+ (Europe only)<br>
[[Wikipedia:British Board of Film Classification|BBFC]]: 15 (UK only)<br>
[[Wikipedia:Unterhaltungssoftware Selbstkontrolle|USK]]: 18 (Germany only)<br>
[[Wikipedia:Australian Classification Board|ACB]]: Mature (M) for Moderate Science Fiction Violence
}}
}}
{{Quote|Finish the fight.|''Halo 3'' tagline.}}


'''''Halo 3''''' is a [[first-person shooter]] video game developed by [[Bungie|Bungie Studios]] and published by [[Microsoft]]. It is a sequel to ''[[Halo 2]]'' and concludes the original ''Halo'' trilogy. ''Halo 3'' was released on [[2007 (real world)|September 25, 2007]] in Australia, Brazil, India, New Zealand, North America, and Singapore; September 26, 2007 in Europe; and September 27, 2007 in Japan all exclusively for the [[Xbox 360]].
'''''Halo 3''''' is a first-person shooter video game, based on the science fiction events and settings in the [[Halo Universe]]. It was developed by [[Bungie Studios]] and published by [[Microsoft]]. Halo 3 was released on September 25th, 2007 exclusively for the [[Xbox 360]].          


The game is rated "M" for Mature for blood, gore, violence, and mild language by the [[wikipedia:Entertainment Software Rating Board|ESRB]]. Europe's PEGI rating system gave the game a "16+" rating, and it is rated "15" by the BBFC for the UK release. The OFLC rated it "M" for the Australia and New Zealand release, although the New Zealand Classification Office later changed the rating to "R16" on December 1, 2017. Japan's [[wikipedia:Computer Entertainment Rating Organization|CERO]] rating system gave this game a "D" rating.
''Halo 3'' is the sequel to ''[[Halo 2]]'' and concludes the current story arc that the previous two games told. It involves [[SPARTAN-II|SPARTAN]] [[John-117]] returning to [[Earth]] in order to stop the [[Prophet of Truth]] from activating [[The Ark]], thus activating the Halos, which would result in the extermination of all life in the galaxy. Shortly into the game, he also has to contend with the arrival of the [[Flood]] on Earth, as well as retrieve [[Cortana]] from the clutches of the evil [[Gravemind]].


Upon its release, ''Halo 3'' grossed US$300 million in its first week. More than one million people played ''Halo 3'' on Xbox Live in the first twenty hours. As of January 3, 2008, ''Halo 3'' has sold 8.1 million copies, and was the best-selling video game of 2007 in the United States. Overall, the game was very well-received by critics, with the [[Forge]] and [[multiplayer]] offerings singled out as strong features. By March 2009 more than one billion online matches had been played.
Even though the game does not progress directly on from the end of [[Halo 2]], Halo 2's cliff-hanger, ''[[Halo: Uprising]]'', a mini comic book series released by Marvel, filled in the missing segments between Halo 2 and Halo 3 on Earth.


Along with ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'', ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' and ''[[Halo 4]]'', ''Halo 3'' was released on the [[Xbox One]] as part of ''[[Halo: The Master Chief Collection]]'' on November 11, [[2014]]. While initially advertised for a release date of [[2020#July|July 14, 2020]], the game was released on July 13 for PC platforms.<ref>''[[Finish The Fight]]''</ref><ref>[https://twitter.com/ChiefCanuck/status/1282875659358883840?s=20 '''Twitter'''']</ref>{{Ref/Note|This article uses the [[Wikipedia:Pacific Time Zone|Pacific Time Zone]] to determine the release date.}}
Halo 3 was released on the long-awaited September 25th in North America and Australia, the 26th in Europe, and the 27th in Japan. It has been rated ''M'' for Mature (blood, gore, violence, and mild language) by the [[wikipedia:Entertainment Software Rating Board|ESRB]], but M 17+ means that Halo 3 is '''recommended''' for 17 years or older, not restricted (this is only a rating for parental guidance) by the [[wikipedia:OFLC (Australia)|OFLC]], but in many stores, like GameStop, ID was required because anyone under the age of seventeen is unable to buy a copy of Halo 3. Europe's PEGI rating system gave the game a ''16+'' rating, which serves as a guideline rather than as a rule. However the UK Release is rated 15 by the BBFC which means it is slightly easier to purchase.


== Synopsis ==
Exactly like its predecessors, Halo 3 was a prosperous, record-breaking game. Accompanied by its record-breaking 1.7 million pre-orders in the U.S, it was set for release on the sought-after 25th of September, and few expected it not to break any records. 24 hours after release, Halo 3 had generated a record-breaking $170 million in the U.S., transcending the number that Microsoft was expecting, $155 million, which later was beaten by Grand Theft Auto IV's worldwide $310 million. Microsoft never released a 24-hour sales number, but it is estimated to have sold in the region of 2.4 - 2.5 million copies within 24 hours of availability in the U.S. - approximately 1.8 million units after 8 hours - with that number increasing to 3.3 million units 12 days after release. Within 24 hours, over 1.1 million gamers had played Halo 3 on Xbox Live. One week after release, over 2.7 million players - nearly one-third of the total Xbox LIVE members at that time - had played it on Xbox Live. As of November 17, 2008 Halo 3 had reportedly sold 8.8 million copies worldwide. <ref>[http://www.vgchartz.com/games/game.php?id=6964&region=All VGChartz News]</ref>
=== Characters and setting ===
''Halo 3'' spans over three different settings, starting with the [[East African Protectorate]] on [[Earth]], then to the [[Forerunner]]s' [[Installation 00|Ark installation]], and finally on Halo [[Installation 08]]. The game continues the [[John-117|Master Chief]]'s efforts in stopping the Covenant from activating the [[Halo Array|Halo rings]]. The [[Covenant]] has become embroiled in a [[Great Schism|civil war]], with the [[Sangheili|Elites]] [[Fleet of Retribution|allied]] with humanity against the main body of the hegemony, now led solely by the [[Prophet of Truth]]. Meanwhile, the [[Jiralhanae|Brutes]] have taken the [[Elites]]' place as field commanders in the [[Covenant military]].


The game takes place after the events of the ''[[Halo 2]]'', directly after the events that transpired in ''[[Halo: Uprising]]''.
==Campaign==
[[Campaign]] consists of 10 levels, of which 9 are playable, tells the story of ''Halo 3''.


=== Plot synopsis ===
#[[Arrival]] - ''"Brace for impact."'' (Cutscene, partly playable)
{{Spoiler/begin}}
#[[Sierra 117 (Level)|Sierra 117]] - ''"Rise up. Start the fight."''
[[File:Master Chief & The Arbiter.jpg|left|260px|thumb|John-117 and Thel 'Vadam in the East African jungle featured in the level "[[Sierra 117]]".]]
#[[Crow's Nest (Level)|Crow's Nest]] - ''"Clear the base, whatever it takes."''
The storyline begins approximately two weeks after the events of ''[[Halo 2]]'', on [[2552#November|November 17th, 2552]]. [[John-117]] enters [[Earth]]'s atmosphere and crash-lands in an [[East African Protectorate|east African]] jungle. After being retrieved by [[Sergeant Major]] [[Avery Johnson]], [[Arbiter]] [[Thel 'Vadam]], and a handful of [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marines]], the group makes their way through the jungle toward a designated extraction point. Covenant forces are sighted in the area and Johnson makes a strategic decision to split the group up to reduce their chances of getting spotted. John-117 and Thel 'Vadam continue on their way to the extraction zone with the second squad, fighting off numerous [[Jiralhanae|Brute]]-led Covenant troops in the process, but upon reaching the extraction zone, Avery Johnson's [[D77H-TCI Pelican|Pelican]] group consisting of two Pelicans, are ambushed and shot down by [[Type-26 Ground Support Aircraft|Banshees]]. Johnson and his men are then captured and taken prisoner by a number of Brutes led by a [[Jiralhanae Chieftain|Brute Chieftain]]. John-117, Thel 'Vadam, and company fight their way through hordes of enemies and eventually rescue them, after which a Pelican arrives and picks them up.
#[[Tsavo Highway (Level)|Tsavo Highway]] - ''"Mount up. Get to [[Voi]]."''
#[[The Storm (Level)|The Storm]] - ''"Reclaim the city. Make a hole."''
#[[Floodgate]] - ''"Stop the [[Flood|infestation]]. Find [[Cortana]]."''
#[[The Ark (Level)|The Ark]] - ''"Search the waste for the [[Cartographer]]."''
#[[The Covenant (Level)|The Covenant]] - ''"Breach the barrier. Stop [[Truth]]."''
#[[Cortana (Level)|Cortana]] - ''"Cleanse [[High Charity]]. Save [[Cortana]]."''
#[[Halo (Halo 3 Level)|Halo ]] - ''"Light [[Installation 04 (II)|the ring]]. Destroy the [[Flood]]."''
 
===Plot===
<!-- When the game begins, [[Spartan]] soldier [[Master Chief|John-117]] returns to [[Earth]], where the [[Covenant Loyalists]] ([[Prophets]], [[Brutes]], [[Drones]], [[Grunts]], [[Hunters]] and [[Jackals]]), led by the [[Prophet of Truth]], have laid waste to most of the planet. Humankind's population has been reduced to at least 200 million people, and is backed up against a wall, fighting for its very survival. The only reason that they have survived for this long is that the [[Covenant]] is preoccupied by an excavation site a few miles from the ruins of the East African City [[New Mombasa]], which is presumably believed to be [[The Ark]], a massive [[Forerunner]] structure that has been buried under the planet's surface for thousands of years. -->[[Image:Master Chief & The Arbiter.jpg|left|300px|thumb|The [[Master Chief]] and the [[Arbiter (Character)|Arbiter]] in an African jungle in the level Sierra 117.]] The storyline begins several weeks after the events of the  ''[[Halo 2]]'' era. John-117 - the [[Master Chief]], after hitching a ride on the Prophet of Truth's [http://halo.wikia.com/wiki/Dreadnaught Dreadnought] (an ancient Forerunner ship), enters [[Earth]]'s atmosphere and crash lands in an east African jungle. [[Sergeant Major]] [[Avery Johnson]], the [[Arbiter (Character)|Arbiter]], and a handful of [[Marines]] retrieve him, but was presumed dead until the Master Chief assures them he's alive, responding to [[Avery Johnson|Johnson]]'s statement, "We're not leaving him here," with, "Yeah, you're not." After coming to consciousness the Master Chief is questioned by Johnson about Cortana's location. The Chiefs reply is simply, "She stayed behind." After being questioned the Master Chief sees one of his old enemies, the Arbiter. He sprints toward the [[Covenant]] Separatist (unknown to John-117 at the time), pistol in hand. However, Johnson holds the Chief back, explaining to him that the Arbiter is their ally in the war now, as they share a common enemy [The Prophets and their followers/Flood]. The group then makes their way through the jungle toward a designated extraction point. Covenant forces are sighted in the area and Johnson makes a strategic decision to split the group up to reduce their chances of getting spotted. Master Chief and the Arbiter continue on their way to the extraction zone with the second squad, fighting off numerous Covenant troops in the process, but upon reaching the extraction zone, Avery Johnson's [[Pelican]] group consisting of two Pelicans, are ambushed and shot down by two [[Banshees]]. Johnson and his men are then captured and taken prisoner by a number of Brutes led by a Gravity Hammer-wielding Chieftain. The Master Chief, Arbiter, and company fight their way through hordes of enemies and eventually rescue them, after which a Pelican arrives and picks them up.
[[Image:UNSC Underground Facility Crow's Nest.PNG|right|280px|thumb|[[UNSC]] Underground Facility "Crow's Nest"]]
 
The [[Pelican]] brings them to [[Crow's Nest (Base)|Crow's Nest]], an underground 21st century facility, believed to be an old NATO base, used as a local base of operations by the [[UNSC]]. Here, Commander [[Miranda Keyes]] and [[Lord Hood]] plan a last-ditch effort to stop the Covenant from activating a Forerunner artifact uncovered outside the ruins of the city of [[New Mombasa]], which is assumed to be [[The Ark]] - from where [[Truth]] is able to activate all the [[Halo]] rings in the galaxy. Their plan is to have the Master Chief with a small group of marines to punch a hole in Truth's anti air defense, so that Lord Hood can initiate a low level strike on the artifact. Their planning is quickly interrupted when power is cut and the Prophet of Truth broadcasts an announcement to all surviving human forces that their doom is inevitable. Soon after that, the Covenant discover the facility and mount a heavy assault. After a brief struggle, the outpost is lost, due to an explosion of a bomb the Chief activated to clear all remaining Covenant forces still inside the base. Master Chief soon receives orders from Commander Keyes to clear a way into the African City of [[Voi]], [[Kenya]] via the [[Tsavo Highway|Tsavo Highway]], and destroy all Covenant anti-air defenses so that Lord Hood can lead the last of Earth's frigates against Truth and the artifact. Using the opening caused by the ground attack, Hood mounts an all out attack on Truth, but the [[Prophet]] activates the artifact and creates an enormous slipspace portal, into which all the Covenant ships retreat. At the same time, a Covenant cruiser controlled by the [[Flood]], a parasitic species, had broken through the [[Elite's]] Quarantine of [[High Charity]] and arrived suddenly via slipspace and crashes into Voi, and the parasite quickly spreads throughout the entire city.
 
As the Human forces attempt to fight the infestation, many are infected by the Flood. Soon after the struggle begins [[Covenant Separatists]], a Faction which broke off from the entire Covenant during [[Halo 2]]/ Halo 3 (somewhere right after Halo 2 era), lead by  Shipmaster [[Rtas 'Vadum]], arrives at Earth and assists the struggle against the infestation, dropping off Orbital Insertion Pods containing allied Elite warriors via the Carrier [[Shadow of Intent]] and a few other Separatist cruisers. The Elites inform Commander Keyes that a UNSC construct is aboard the crashed Flood ship, and identify it as [[Cortana]]. The [[Master Chief]], [[Arbiter]] and the Elites fight off many Flood forms and retrieve Cortana from the Flood ship, losing a few comrades in the making. [[343 Guilty Spark (Monitor)|343 Guilty Spark]] (the Elites refer to him as the Oracle) arrives by a [[Separatist Phantom]], and insists that he take Cortana somewhere where he can make repairs, claiming that now his [[Installation 04|Installation]] has been destroyed he now must follow his second function of helping the Reclaimers, so decides to help the Master Chief destroy the Flood. Once the Arbiter and the Chief are evacuated, the Elites glass the entire infected half of Africa to prevent the Flood from spreading, which amplifies the hard feelings between Lord Hood and [[Rtas 'Vadum]],  [[Shipmaster]] of [[Shadow of Intent]], and Fleet Master of the current Covenant Separatist force.
 
343 Guilty Spark manages to make efficient repairs to Cortana, but the Master Chief realizes it isn't her, but only a recorded message from her. The message states that the [[Gravemind]] is coming to Earth on the former Covenant city, High Charity, and that the portal that Truth retreated into is unknown to the Gravemind, and on the other side is a solution to the Flood infestation, without having to fire the rings. Lord Hood questions Cortana's plan, saying it could be a Flood trap, but the Master Chief firmly tells Hood that he completely trusts her.
 
Once the Elites and Commander Keyes decide to follow Truth, the remaining Elite and UNSC ships leave Earth via the activated slipspace portal. Lord Hood stays on Earth to fight the remaining infected with some UNSC marines and the rest of the UNSC Army. On the other side of the portal, they find themselves near an immense artificial structure, which is soon revealed to be the real [[Ark]]. Arriving at the Ark, they engage a Covenant fleet three times their size, with Rtas 'Vadum stating "Then it is an even fight". After landing on the structure, Guilty Spark helps lead Master Chief and the UNSC armored force to the [[Silent Cartographer (Building)|Cartographer]], or map room of the Ark. After fighting their way in, Chief and the Arbiter find out that the Ark is in fact positioned at the edge of the Milky Way, just beyond the Halo rings' effective firing range. Soon Spark, understanding a Cartographer, explains that the UNSC and the [[Separatists]] must deactivate three shield generators, which are inside three separate towers, to access the [[Control Room]] of the Ark, where Truth is currently located and plans to activate the rings from.
 
Upon arrival at the three generators, the Master Chief takes 3 [[ODST]]s to the first tower, while the Arbiter takes his [[Elites]] to the second, and [[Sergeant Johnson]] takes another squad to the third. While Master Chief and the Arbiter succeed in deactivating the first and second towers, Johnson radios Keyes, telling her that the enemy forces are too heavy and he must retreat. [[Miranda Keyes]] then orders the Arbiter and Master Chief to go and assist him. On arrival to the third tower, Johnson and his men are nowhere to be seen. Master Chief, Arbiter, and the Elites kill the [[Loyalist]] force defending the tower and deactivate it. However, just after the final shield barrier protecting the Control Room deactivates, the Flood-infested [[High Charity]] arrives via slip-space and crashes onto the Ark, releasing [[Flood Drop Pods|Flood Dispersal Pods]] as it falls. [[343 Guilty Spark (Monitor)|Spark]] insists that he must assess the damage that High Charity did to the Ark, so the Arbiter and Elites leave the UNSC to protect [[343 Guilty Spark (Monitor)|Spark]] from being captured by the Flood. The Chief leads the remaining UNSC and surviving Elite force via vehicles in an attack on the [[Citadel]] containing the Control Room, which is defended by numerous Covenant armor forces. After all the forces are defeated, 343 Guilty Spark and the Arbiter return, but then the Arbiter and the Master Chief enter the citadel alone to avoid more casualties. Once inside, they see that Truth has captured Johnson, knowing that only humans can activate Forerunner Installations, but are too far away to save him. Just as Truth is about to force Johnson to activate the rings, Keyes commandeers a Pelican and crashes it in the Control Room, keeping the [[Brutes]] at bay with a [[Shotgun]] while tending to Johnson. Knowing she can't kill all of the Brutes, she realizes she must kill Johnson and herself to stop the rings from being activated. She is about to shoot Johnson before Truth grabs a [[Spiker]] and fires seven shots at her spine with it, killing her. Truth then pushes Johnson's hand down on the Ark's terminal, activating all of the Halos in the galaxy.
 
Then Master Chief and Arbiter take an elevator up to the Control Room, despite knowing it is too late. As they reach the top, two [[Flood Tank Forms]] confront them, but say that the only way to stop the Halos is by joining forces. With the Flood's help, the Master Chief and Arbiter kill all the Covenant forces defending Truth. Upon arrival to the Ark's terminal, they find Johnson mourning over Keyes' dead body, and Truth partially infected. The Arbiter, after a short confrontation with Truth over the truth of the Halos, executes Truth with his [[Energy Sword]], while the Master Chief deactivates all the Halos, and Johnson is seen walking towards the Pelican with the body of Keyes. After the rings are stopped, however, the Gravemind betrays them. Johnson attempts to escape with the Pelican of Commander Keyes, and he escapes, but the Gravemind prevents the Arbiter and Chief from escaping with him.
 
Johnson radios Chief, telling him to find another way out, so he and the Arbiter shoot their way back to the entrance elevator, but it is deactivated. Behind the elevator is a hole, leading to a lower level of the citadel. Cortana briefly shows herself to the Chief, and leads him to a control panel which reveals her plan - The Ark releases a 'replacement' Halo in the event of one being destroyed. The Chief decides he's going to light the single replacement ring in order to destroy the Flood for good. However, Guilty Spark tells them it will take quite some time to fabricate an [[Index]] needed to fire the Halo, but Master Chief remembers that Cortana still has the Index that she acquired on Installation 04. He infiltrates the crashed High Charity, which is completely overrun by Flood. Cortana becomes rampant before the Chief can reach her, but she is able to contain the functional part of herself in a stasis-field, where she waits. Master Chief breaks the stasis-field and retrieves a perfectly functioning Cortana. She tells him to overload High Charity's engines in order to destroy the Gravemind. The Arbiter arrives via a Banshee and helps the Chief fight the Flood. They find a Pelican, which had presumably crashed when the Flood used ''[[UNSC In Amber Clad|In Amber Clad]]'' to infect High Charity during the ''Halo 2'' era. Damaged but still flyable, the Master Chief uploads Cortana into the Pelican and both him and the Arbiter flee High Charity before it explodes.
 
Cortana makes contact with Johnson, who safely made it back the Shadow of Intent along with the other human and Elite survivors. He tells her that he will land the frigate [[Forward Unto Dawn]] near Halo's Control Room, and will be ready to pick them up and head back to Earth after they activate the Installation. When they arrive on the newly built Halo, they quickly discover that Gravemind is attempting to reconstruct itself on the new ring. The Chief, Arbiter, and Johnson quickly make their way to the Control Room, where they attempt to fire the Halo. However, Guilty Spark realizes that this will destroy his new ring because it is not fully ready yet, as well as the Ark. Guilty Spark becomes rampant, and fires his defensive laser at Johnson as he tries to activate the ring. Guilty Spark soon turns on the Master Chief and locks the Arbiter out of the room, leaving the Spartan to destroy Guilty Spark himself. Johnson is mortally wounded in the attack. He tells the Chief to send him out "with a bang" and dies. Cortana activates Halo, and Chief takes Johnson's [[Warthog]] with the Arbiter and race towards the Frigate. With no time to reach the cockpit, the Master Chief uploads Cortana into the frigate to start taking off before the Arbiter is able to take the controls. The front half of the ''Dawn'', containing the Arbiter, makes it through the portal. However, as Halo shakes itself to pieces during its firing sequence and damages the Ark, the portal deactivates before the other half of the ''Dawn'' containing Chief and Cortana made it through.
 
Back on Earth, Lord Hood holds a memorial service in honor for those who died in the [[Human-Covenant War]], with the Arbiter and many Marines in attendance. With Truth dead, the Covenant destroyed, and the Flood wiped out, the long and devastating war is finally over. Though he says he can never forgive the Arbiter for what the Covenant did to the human race, Lord Hood sincerely thanks him for standing by the Master Chief until the end. Everyone thinks the Chief is dead. After the service, Shipmaster Rtas 'Vadum, tells the Arbiter that he wants to make sure the Elite [[Sangheilios|home world]] is safe. The Arbiter tells him that with the eradication of the Covenant, they have made it so. He tells the piloting Elites to take them home. Just after this you see the camera zoom in to the memorial where the number 117 is scratched onto the front. Then credits roll.
 
After the credits, it is revealed that the Master Chief and Cortana are still alive on-board the rear section of the ''[[Forward Unto Dawn|Dawn]]'', which had apparently torn off before going through the portal; the pair are drifting through space. Cortana tells the Chief she will drop a distress beacon, but that it could be years before they are found. The Chief floats to a cryotube, and as he is climbing in Cortana comments "I'll miss you." He replies "Wake me, when you need me."
 
If the last level is completed on Legendary difficulty(however there is a bug that allows you to see it on other difficulties), the section of [[Forward Unto Dawn]] that Cortana and the Chief are aboard is seen drifting towards an [[Legendary Planet|unknown Forerunner planet]].
Rumours have it that the unknown planet, is Onyx, a shield planet the Forerunners would go to if they ever had to activate the rings (see [[Onyx]] for more information).
 
====Characters====
[[Image:Brutecaptain.jpg|200px|thumb|right|A render of a [[Brute|Jiralhanae]], or Brute, Captain.]]
 
=====Major Characters=====
'''[[UNSC]]'''
* [[Master Chief Petty Officer]] [[John-117]]
* [[Artificial Intelligence|AI Construct]] [[Cortana (AI)|Cortana]]
* [[Sergeant Major]] [[Avery J. Johnson]]
* [[Lieutenant Commander]] [[Miranda Keyes]]
* [[Fleet Admiral]] [[Lord Terrence Hood]]
 
'''[[Covenant Separatist]]s'''
*[[Arbiter (Rank)|The Arbiter]] [[Thel 'Vadam]]
*[[Shipmaster]] [[Rtas 'Vadum]]
 
 
'''[[Covenant Loyalist]]s'''
*[[High Prophet of Truth]]
 
'''[[Flood]]'''
*[[Gravemind]]


[[File:UNSC Underground Facility Crow's Nest.PNG|thumb|280px|UNSC underground facility "Crow's Nest".]]
'''[[Forerunner]]'''
*[[343 Guilty Spark (Monitor)|343 Guilty Spark]]


The Pelican brings them to [[Crow's Nest (location)|Crow's Nest]] which is used as a local base of operations by the [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]]. Here, [[Commander]] [[Miranda Keyes]] and [[Fleet Admiral]] [[Terrence Hood]] plan a last-ditch effort to stop the Covenant from activating an artifact built by the long-vanished [[Forerunner]]s who the Covenant worship as gods, uncovered outside the ruins of the city of [[New Mombasa]]. This artifact is believed to be the Ark, which, if activated, will fire the [[Halo Array]], which the Covenant believe will herald a sublimation event called the [[Covenant religion|Great Journey]] and propel the faithful to godhood, but will in fact wipe out all sentient life in the galaxy. Their plan is to have John-117 and a small group of marines punch a hole in the Covenant's anti-air defenses, so that Lord Hood can initiate a low level air-strike on the artifact. Their planning is quickly interrupted when power is cut and the [[Prophet of Truth|High Prophet of Truth]] broadcasts an announcement to all surviving human forces that their doom is inevitable. Soon after that, the Covenant discover the facility and mount a heavy assault. After a brief struggle, the outpost is lost and is destroyed by a bomb activated by John-117. Deep underground, the Master Chief regroups with the surviving Marines and makes his way into the African city of [[Voi]], [[Kenya]] via the [[Tsavo highway (location)|Tsavo Highway]]. In Voi, John-117 along with a handful of Marines destroy the Covenant anti-air defenses. Lord Hood leads the last of Earth's military ships against Truth and the artifact. As Hood mounts his attack on the Prophet, Truth activates the artifact and creates an enormous [[slipspace portal]], into which all the Covenant ships retreat.
=====Minor Characters=====
'''[[UNSC]]'''
*[[Lieutenant]] "[[Hocus]]"
*[[Gunnery Sergeant]] [[Reynolds]]
*[[Gunnery Sergeant]] [[Pete Stacker]]
'''[[Forerunners]]'''
*[[Librarian]]
*[[Mendicant Bias]]


At the same time, the ''[[Indulgence of Conviction]]'', a ''Ket''-pattern battlecruiser controlled by the [[Flood]], a parasitic species which nearly wiped out the Forerunners, arrives suddenly via slipspace and crashes in Voi. The parasite quickly spreads throughout the entire city and infects many, minutes after they arrive. As the Human forces attempt to fight the infestation, many become infected by the Flood. The [[Fleet of Retribution|Sangheili]], led by Shipmaster [[Rtas 'Vadum]], arrive at Earth and assist the struggle against the infestation. The Elites inform Commander Keyes that a UNSC construct is aboard the crashed Flood ship, and identify it as [[Cortana]]. After retrieving Cortana, John-117 returned to the Elites' flagship, ''[[Shadow of Intent]]'', to oversee the repairs made by [[343 Guilty Spark]]. However, it is only a recorded message from her. Cortana's message says that the [[Gravemind]] is bringing the infested ''[[High Charity]]'' to Earth with an army of Flood, and that on the other side of the portal is a solution to the Flood infestation, without having to fire the rings. Lord Hood questions Cortana's plan, assuming that it could be a Flood trap, but John-117 firmly tells Hood that he trusts her.
====Unnamed Minor Characters====
=====Sentient=====
'''UNSC'''
*[[UNSC Marine Corps]]
**[[UNSC Marine Corps|Marine Infantryman]]
**[[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper|Orbital Drop Shock Troopers]]
**[[UNSC Marine Corps|Dropship Pilots]]
*[[UNSC Navy]]
**[[UNSC Navy|Fighter Pilots]]
**[[UNSC Navy|Crewman]]
*[[Office of Naval Intelligence]]
**[[ONI Recon 111|Reconnaissance Personnel]]  
*[[Voi Factory Workers]]
 
'''Covenant Separatists'''
*[[Sangheili]]
 
'''Covenant Loyalists'''
*[[San 'Shyuum]]
*[[Jiralhanae]]
*[[Mgalekgolo]]
*[[Unggoy]]
*[[Kig-yar]]
*[[Yanme'e]]


Lord Hood and the rest of the UNSC remain on Earth to defend it against the incoming Flood invasion while Commander Keyes and the Elites journey through the Portal. Arriving at [[Installation 00|the true Ark]], which is several thousand light years beyond the rim of the Milky Way, the Sangheili engage Truth's fleet while the UNSC launches a ground campaign. After landing on the Ark, 343 Guilty Spark helps lead the Master Chief and UNSC forces to the [[Cartographer|Ark's Cartographer]], the map room of the Ark, to locate the Control Room of the Ark. In order to access the Control Room, the UNSC and the Sangheili must deactivate three shield generators which are inside three separate towers. While John-117 and the Arbiter succeed in deactivating the first and second towers, Johnson radios Keyes, telling her that he must retreat due to the heavy enemy assault. When John-117 and the Elites arrived to the third tower, Johnson and his men are nowhere to be seen. After the final shield barrier protecting the Control Room deactivates, the Flood-infested ''High Charity'' arrives via slipspace and crashes onto the Ark, releasing [[Flood dispersal pod]]s as it falls.
'''Flood'''
*Standard Forms
**[[Infection Form]]s
**[[Combat Form]]s
**[[Carrier Form]]s
*[[Pure Form]]s
**[[Tank Form]]s
**[[Stalker Form]]s
**[[Ranged Form]]s


After handling the nearby infestation, John-117 leads the remaining UNSC and surviving [[Sangheili]] forces via armored vehicles in an assault on the [[Installation 00 Citadel|Citadel]] containing the Control Room, which is heavily defended by Covenant forces. Once inside the Citadel, Truth broadcasts his sermon and reveals the captured Johnson to his followers. Just as Truth is about to force Johnson to activate the rings, Keyes crashes into the Control Room using a Pelican. While she tries to fight off all the Brutes, Johnson realises that she must kill him and herself to stop the rings from being activated. From behind, Truth kills Keyes, and then using Johnson's hand on the nearby terminal, activates all of the remaining Halos in the galaxy. 
'''Forerunner'''
*[[Sentinel]]s
*[[Constructor]]s
*[[Monitor]]s


Just as John-117 and Thel 'Vadam reach the top, two [[Flood tank form]]s confront them. The [[Gravemind]], communicating through the two Flood forms, urges the two to join forces in stopping the initiation of the Halos and Truth. With the Flood's help, John-117 and Thel 'Vadam slaughtered all the Covenant forces defending Truth. Upon arrival to the Ark's Control Terminal, they find Johnson mourning over the loss of Keyes, and Truth partially infected. Thel 'Vadam, after a short confrontation with Truth over the true purpose of the [[Halo Array|Halos]], executes Truth with his energy sword, just as John-117 deactivates all the Halos. Shortly after the deactivation of the Halos, the Gravemind betrays them and prevents the duo from escaping - although Johnson manages to escape using Keyes' crashed Pelican.
==Features==
===[[Weapons]]===
These are the weapons in the game:


The duo escapes from the Citadel via an access tunnel near the elevator they used earlier. John-117 then experiences a hallucination of Cortana and follows the figure to a control panel. He then activates the panel, finally learning Cortana's plan: the Ark is manufacturing a [[Installation 08|replacement Halo]] after the destruction of the previous one. Knowing that the threat of the Flood is undeniably apocalyptic, and that the new ring is unconnected to the rest of the Array, John-117 decides he will activate the new Halo. Needing an Index in order to fire the ring, SPARTAN-117 journeys into the crashed High Charity to retrieve Cortana, keeping his [[High Charity (level)|promise]] and knowing that she still has the Index she acquired from the original [[Installation 04]]. Once retrieved, Cortana instructs the Spartan to overload ''High Charity''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s engines in order to destroy the Gravemind. Thel 'Vadam arrives via Banshee to assist the Spartan in fighting the Flood. The two escape from ''High Charity'' before it explodes using a damaged but still flyable Pelican.
====[[Covenant]]====
=====Standard=====
*[[Type-1 Antipersonnel Grenade]] (Plasma Grenade)
*[[Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword]] (Energy Sword)
*[[Type-25 Directed Energy Pistol]] (Plasma Pistol)
*[[Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle]] (Plasma Rifle)
*[[Type-26 ASG|Type-26 Anti-Personal Stationary Gun]] (Shade)
*[[Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher]] (Needler)
*[[Type-33 Light Anti-Armor Weapon]] (Fuel Rod Gun)
*[[Type-50 Sniper Rifle System]] (Beam Rifle)
*[[Type-51 Carbine]] (Covenant Carbine)


The surviving Sangheili and UNSC personnel return to Earth leaving only Sergeant Johnson, John-117 with Cortana, and the Arbiter to make their way to the new Halo. As they make their way to the new Halo's Control Room, Flood forms arrive via [[Flood dispersal pod|dispersal pods]] to prevent the activation of the Halo. From here, they quickly discover that [[Gravemind]] is attempting to reconstruct itself on the new Halo. As Sergeant Johnson tries to activate the ring, [[343 Guilty Spark]] fires his defensive laser at him after realizing that it will destroy the installation and the Ark. The Monitor then turns against the Spartan and blasts the Arbiter out of the Control Room, leaving the Spartan to destroy Guilty Spark by himself. John-117 successfully destroys the Monitor with the [[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle|Spartan Laser]] and tries to mend Johnson. Mortally wounded, Johnson urged the Spartan to send him out "with a bang".
=====Support=====
*[[Type-52 Directed Energy Support Weapon]] (Plasma turret)


With the Halo activated, John-117 and Thel 'Vadam race towards the frigate ''[[UNSC Forward Unto Dawn|Forward Unto Dawn]]'' using Johnson's Warthog. With no time to reach the bridge, John-117 uploads Cortana into the frigate to start taking off before the Arbiter is able to take the controls. The front half of the ''Dawn'', containing the Arbiter, makes it through the portal. However, as Halo shakes itself to pieces during its firing sequence and damages the Ark, the portal deactivates as the other half of the ''Dawn'' containing Chief and Cortana enter it. This causes them to rip off from the other half of the ship and be sent to an unknown area of space far enough from the Halo's blast. However, since they didn't come out of the other side of the portal, they never make it back to Earth.
=====[[Jiralhanae]]=====
*[[Type-2 Antipersonnel Fragmentation Grenade]] (Spike Grenade)
*[[Type-2 Energy Weapon/Hammer]] (Gravity Hammer)
*[[Type-3 Antipersonnel/Antimatériel Incendiary Grenade]] (Firebomb Grenade)
*[[Type-25 Carbine]] (Spiker)
*[[Type-25 Grenade Launcher]] (Brute Shot)
*[[Type-52 Pistol]] (Mauler)


Back on Earth, Lord Hood holds a [[Voi Memorial|memorial service]] in honor of those who died in the [[Human-Covenant War]], with the Arbiter and many Marines in attendance. With Truth dead, the Covenant defeated, and the Flood wiped out, the long and devastating war is finally over. Though he says he can never forgive the Arbiter for what the Covenant did to the human race, Lord Hood sincerely thanks him for standing by the Master Chief until the end. After the service, the Sangheili return to their [[Sanghelios|home planet]].
====[[Forerunner]]====
*[[Sentinel Beam]]


After the credits, it is revealed that John-117 and Cortana are still alive aboard the rear section of the ''Dawn'', which had apparently torn off before going through the other side of the portal. The SPARTAN floats to a [[cryo chamber]] and as he climbs in, Cortana comments "''I'll miss you.''" He replies "''Wake me, when you need me.''" If the last level is completed on Legendary difficulty, the section of ''Forward Unto Dawn'' that Cortana and the Chief are aboard is seen drifting towards a [[Requiem|Forerunner world]].
====[[United Nations Space Command]]====
{{Spoiler/end}}
=====Standard=====
[[Image:Flamethrower.jpg|thumb|Players were thrilled to hear that the [[Flamethrower]] would make its return in Halo 3.]]
*[[MA5C Individual Combat Weapon System]] (Assault Rifle)
*[[BR55HB SR Battle Rifle]] (Battle Rifle)
*[[M6G Personal Defense Weapon System]] (Magnum)
*[[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun]] (SMG)
*[[M9 Fragmentation Grenade|M9 HE-DP Fragmentation Grenade]] (Frag Grenade)
*[[M41 SSR MAV/AW|M41 SSR MAV/AW Rocket Launcher]] (Rocket Launcher)
*[[M90 Close Assault Weapon System]] (Shotgun)
*[[SRS99D-S2 AM Sniper Rifle]] (Sniper Rifle)
*[[Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle]] (Spartan Laser)


== Gameplay ==
=====Support=====
''Halo 3'' incorporates many of the gameplay features previously made available in [[Halo 2]], refining the gameplay design and expanding the amount of resources in the sandbox to diversify the gameplay experience. For example, [[dual wielding]] has been retained as a feature in both campaign and multiplayer, HUD elements have been repositioned so that they are more prominently available to the player, and [[boarding (gameplay mechanic)|boarding vehicles]] have more varied animations and are more balanced.
*[[AIE-486H Heavy Machine Gun]] (Machine Gun Turret)
*[[LAU-65D/SGM-151]] (Missile Pod)
*[[M7057/Defoliant Projector]] (Flamethrower)


Vehicles now feature more complex collision damage based on their size, mass and speed. For example, the Brute [[Barukaza Workshop Chopper|Chopper]] can destroy a UNSC [[Warthog]] with a head-on ram, and colliding head-on with a solid object in a Ghost can kill the player.
===[[Equipment]]===
<div class="thumb tright"  style="width:200px;">
</div>
*[[Bubble Shield]]
*[[Power Drain]]
*[[Trip Mine]]
*[[Portable Grav Lift]]
*[[Radar Jammer]] - Removed from Matchmaking
*[[Flare]] - Removed from Matchmaking
*[[Regenerator]]
*[[Deployable Cover]] - Not in Matchmaking by default
*[[Invincibility]] - Campaign only
*[[Automated Turret]] - Campaign only
*[[Cloaking]] - Campaign only
*[[Active Camouflage]] - Multiplayer only (similar to [[Cloaking]])
*[[Overshield]] - Multiplayer only (similar to [[Invincibility]])
*[[Custom Power Up]] - Multiplayer only


The game enhances the core gameplay design by introducing [[Equipment|deployable equipment]] as well as giving players the ability to use [[Weapon types#Turret|turret weapons]]. Equipment is a collection of tools accessible to players to assist them in their objectives. This ranges from [[Bubble Shield|a spherical shield that protects players temporarily]], [[Power Drain|a device that drains power from electrical appliances]] to [[Gravity lift|a device that propels personnel into the air]]. Turret weapons allow players to wield heavy weapons in a third-person perspective at a slower pace.
===[[Vehicles]]===
====[[Covenant]]====
[[Image:Starry Night by the Ark.PNG|thumb|right|A Covenant [[Carrier]] Battle Group.]] [[Image:Banshee 2.jpg|thumb|right|150px|A [[Banshee]].]] [[Image:Forward into dawn.jpg|thumb|right|150px|[[Forward Unto Dawn]] over the Ark]]
=====Standard=====
*[[Type-26 Ground Support Aircraft]] (Banshee)
*[[Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle]] (Ghost)
*[[Type-25 Wraith]] (Wraith)
*[[Type-52 Anti-Aircraft Artillery]] (Anti Air Wraith - Usable via glitch)


{{Expand-section}}
=====[[Brute Sandbox|Jiralhanae]] (Brute)=====
*[[Type-25 Rapid Assault Vehicle]] (Brute Chopper)
*[[Type-52 Infantry Support Vehicle]] (Brute Prowler)


=== Campaign ===
=====Non-Usable=====
The campaign in ''Halo 3'' consists of ten levels which tell the story of the final days of [[human]]ity and the [[Fleet of Retribution|Sangheili's]] conflict with the Prophet of Truth's Covenant forces.
*[[Assault Carrier]]
*[[CCS-class Battlecruiser]]
*[[Forerunner Dreadnought]]
*[[Covenant Seraph-Class Starfighter|Seraph Fighter-Interceptor]]
*[[Type-47 Ultra Heavy Assault Platform]] (Scarab)
*[[Type-52 Troop Carrier]] (Phantom)
<GALLERY></GALLERY>


#[[Arrival]] - "''Brace for impact.''" (cutscene, tutorial on single player)
====[[UNSC]]====
#[[Sierra 117]] - ''"Rise up. Start the fight."''
*[[Behemoth-class Troop Transport]] (Elephant)
#[[Crow's Nest]] - ''"Clear the base, whatever it takes."''
*[[AV-14 Hornet]] (Hornet)
#[[Tsavo Highway]] - ''"Mount up. Get to [[Voi]]."''
*[[Warthog#M12 Warthog LRV|M12 Warthog LRV]] (Chaingun Warthog)
#[[The Storm]] - ''"Reclaim the city. Make a hole."''
*[[M12G1 Warthog LAAV]] (Gauss Warthog)
#[[Floodgate]] - ''"Stop the [[Flood|infestation]]. Find [[Cortana]]."''
*[[M274 Mongoose ULATV]] (Mongoose)
#[[The Ark (level)|The Ark]] - ''"Search the waste for the [[Cartographer]]."''
*[[M808B Scorpion MBT]] (Scorpion)
#[[The Covenant (level)|The Covenant]] - ''"Breach the barrier. Stop [[Prophet of Truth|Truth]]."''
*[[M831 TT Warthog|M831 Troop Transport]] (Troop Transport Warthog)
#[[Cortana (level)|Cortana]] - ''"Cleanse [[High Charity]]. Save Cortana."''
#[[Halo (Halo 3 level)|Halo]] - ''"Light [[Installation 08|the ring]]. Destroy the Flood."''


=== Multiplayer ===
=====Non-usable=====
A total of 24 multiplayer maps are available in ''Halo 3''. As of [[2021 (real world)|2021]], three additional maps were added to ''Halo 3'' in ''The Master Chief Collection'' from the cancelled ''[[Halo Online]]'' - bringing the total map count for this version of ''Halo 3'' up to 27.
*{{UNSCShip|Forward Unto Dawn}} (FFG-201)
*{{UNSCShip|Aegis Fate}} (FFG-307)
*[[D77H-TCI Pelican|D77H-TCI Pelican Dropship]]
*[[Albatross|Albatross Heavy Dropship]]
*[[C709 Longsword-class Starfighter|C709 Longsword Fighter-Interceptor]]


{{col-begin}}
==Multiplayer==
{{col-2}}
===Maps===
==== Default ====
====Standard Maps====
*[[Construct]]
[[Image:Val ext3.jpg|right|thumb|The map Valhalla.]]
*[[Epitaph]]
On release, ''Halo 3'' was shipped out with 11 [[multiplayer]] maps that could be played over [[Xbox Live]]. ''Halo 3'' has the smallest number of multiplayer maps released on launch, as [[Halo: Combat Evolved]] had 13, and ''[[Halo 2]]'' had 12. To combat this lack of maps, many players customized the maps using the new feature, [[Forge]].
*[[Guardian (map)|Guardian]]
*[[High Ground]]
*[[Isolation]]
*[[Last Resort]]
*[[Narrows]] 
*[[Sandtrap]]
*[[Snowbound]]
*[[The Pit]]
*[[Valhalla]]


==== Heroic Map Pack ====
*[[Construct (Level)|Construct]]
{{Main|Heroic Map Pack}}
*[[Epitaph (Level)|Epitaph]]/[[Epilogue (Level)|Epilogue]]
<!--dates of release and previous prices belong on the map pack page, not on the ''Halo 3'' page-->
*[[Guardian (Level)|Guardian]]
*[[Foundry]]   
*[[High Ground (Level)|High Ground]]
*[[Rat's Nest]]
*[[Isolation (Level)|Isolation]]
*[[Standoff]]
*[[Last Resort (Level)|Last Resort]] 
*[[Narrows (Level)|Narrows]]   
*[[Sandtrap (Level)|Sandtrap]]/[[Sand Tarp (Level)|Sand Tarp]]
*[[Snowbound (Level)|Snowbound]]/[[Boundless (Level)|Boundless]]
*[[The Pit (Level)|The Pit]]/[[Pit Stop (Level)|Pit Stop]]
*[[Valhalla (Level)|Valhalla]]


==== Legendary Map Pack ====
====[[Heroic Map Pack]]====
{{Main|Legendary Map Pack}}
[[Image:Heroicmaps.jpg|right|thumb|Foundry, Rat's Nest, and Standoff: the three Heroic Maps]]
<!--dates of release and previous prices belong on the map pack page, not on the halo 3 page-->
<!--dates of release and previous prices belong on the map pack page, not on the halo 3 page-->
*[[Avalanche]]
The [[Heroic Map Pack]] is downloadable through Xbox Live Marketplace. Previously an 800 point purchase, it is now available as a free download. The maps included in this Map Pack are:
*[[Blackout]]
 
*[[Ghost Town]]
*[[Foundry (Level)|Foundry]]
{{col-2}}
*[[Rat's Nest (Level)|Rat's Nest]]
==== Cold Storage ====
*[[Standoff (Level)|Standoff]]
{{Main|Cold Storage}}
Cold Storage is downloadable through Xbox Live Marketplace for free and is the seventh downloadable map for ''Halo 3''. It was released on 07/07/08, Bungie Day, as a free gift to the entire ''Halo 3'' community around the world.


====Mythic Map Pack====
====[[Legendary Map Pack]]====
{{Main|Mythic Map Pack}}
<!--dates of release and previous prices belong on the map pack page, not on the halo 3 page-->
<!--dates of release and previous prices belong on the map pack page, not on the halo 3 page-->
*[[Assembly]]
The [[Legendary Map Pack]] is downloadable through Xbox Live Marketplace for 800 Microsoft Points. Microsoft dropped the price on July 7, Bungie Day to 600 Microsoft Points, but discontinued the previously included Bungie Pro bonus. The maps included in this Map Pack are:
*[[Orbital]]
*[[Avalanche (Level)|Avalanche]]
*[[Sandbox]]
*[[Blackout (Level)|Blackout]]
*[[Ghost Town (Level)|Ghost Town]]


====Mythic Map Pack II====
====[[Cold Storage (Level)|Cold Storage]]====
{{Main|Mythic II Map Pack}}
This map is downloadable through Xbox Live Marketplace for free and is the [[7|seventh]] downloadable map for Halo 3. It released on 07/07/08, Bungie Day, as a free gift to the entire Halo 3 community around the world .
*[[Citadel]]
*[[Heretic]]
*[[Longshore]]


====''Halo: The Master Chief Collection''-exclusive====
====[[Mythic Map Pack]]====
*[[Edge]]
These new maps have been mentioned or announced by Bungie, all with varying degrees of information. The following maps below have been confirmed by Bungie to be together in the Mythic Map pack. The first part of the Mythic Map pack (Assembly, Orbital, and Sandbox) was shipped with the Limited Edition of Halo Wars on March 3rd, 2009 (in North America). On April 9th, 2009, the first part of the Mythic Map pack was released on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for 800 points. A Bungie Pro bonus was also added. Special online competitions are also being held to get the first three maps free. As to the second part of the Mythic Maps, they will be included in the shipping of [[Halo 3: ODST]].
*[[Icebox]]
*[[Waterfall]]
{{col-end}}


=== Appearance ===
'''''Part 1'''''
==== Service tags ====
*[[Assembly (Level)|Assembly]]
The service tag is how players can be identified quickly on the battlefield, instead of the long names and complex number combinations which are not suitable for battle situations that require quick tactical orders or communication. The service tag is comprised of a letter followed by two numbers. A few examples of service tags are K90, C27, A12, S86, D17, and D21.
*[[Orbital (Level)|Orbital]]
*[[Sandbox (Level)|Sandbox]]
'''''Part 2'''''
*[[Citadel (Level)|Citadel]]
*[[Heretic (Level)|Heretic]]
*[[Longshore (Level)|Longshore]]


Certain service tags are disallowed, and entering them will yield the error message "This Service Tag is currently in use by the UNSC." Generally, tags that identify ''Halo'' characters, trademarks, or offensive words are disallowed. Such tags include: "[[John-117|I17]]", "[[Wikipedia:Nintendo 64|N64]]", "[[Wikipedia:Playstation 2|P52]]", "[[Wiktionary:Ass|A55]]", "[[Wiktionary:Poo|P00]]", "[[Wikipedia:Jew|J00]]", "[[Wikipedia:Fag (slang)|F49]]", "A23", and "[[Wikipedia:Teat|T17]]". "O00" is blocked due to its usage in [[Temporary Profile]]s. Anything ending in 00 is blocked.
==Appearance==
====Service Tags====
The Service Tag is how you and your team can be identified quickly on the battlefield, instead of the long names and complex number combinations which are not suitable for battle situations that require quick tactical orders or communication. The service Tag is comprised of a letter followed by two numbers. A few examples of Service Tags are K90, C27 , A12, S86, D17, and D21.
When certain specific Service Tag coding is entered for example: I17 ''(117)''  an error message will appear stating ''"This Service Tag is currently in use by the UNSC"'' and to choose another. Another error message will happen when ''"N64"'' and ''"P52"'' (Nintendo 64 and Playstation 2) are entered but this is due to trademark infringement of the companies, and as a result the service tag will not be allowed. Similar error messages are shown if you put in "A55", "N00", "P00", "F00", "J00" and "T17" as they are offensive references. "O00 has also been blocked as it is reserved as guest service tags.


According to Bungie, as of March 14 the most used Service Tags by players of ''Halo 3'' are, in descending order, ''[[Wikipedia:James Bond|O07]]'', ''[[wikipedia:M16 rifle|M16]]'' , ''I69'', ''P26'', ''[[Sadie's Story|S80]]'', ''N99'', ''[[Wikipedia:F/A-18 Hornet|F18]]'', ''[[Wikipedia:Water|H20]]'', ''I87'', and ''[[Wiktionary:Die|D13]]''.{{Citation needed}}
According to [[Bungie]], as of March 14th the most used Service Tags by players of Halo 3 are, in descending order, ''O07'', ''M16'', ''I69'', ''P26'', ''S80'', ''N99'', ''F18'', ''H20'', ''I87'', and ''D13''.


==== Armor permutations ====
The chances of two people having the same service tag on Xbox Live is 2574 to 1 or would be if the tags were chosen randomly.
{{Main|Armor customization (Halo 3)}}
There are two player models which players can choose from, the standard [[SPARTAN-II Program|SPARTAN]] model or an [[Sangheili|Elite]] model. Each model has several armor permutations which can be combined. All armor permutations do not have any effects on gameplay.
{{Armor/Permutation/H3}}


==== Emblems ====
====Armor Permutations====
{{Main|Multiplayer Emblems}}
{{main|Armor Permutations}}
An Emblem is a highly customizable image that appears on the right arm of a Spartan and the back of an Elite during multiplayer matches, they are there to give a player an identity for themselves. ''Halo 3'' introduces several new emblems for the player to use along with new backgrounds to further customize that emblem.  
There are two player models which you can choose from, the standard [[Spartan]] model or an [[Elite]] model. Each model has several armor permutations which can be combined. All [[Armor]] permutations do not have any effects on gameplay.


==== Colors ====
=====Spartan=====
There are ten base and primary colors, each with three shades of one another that are used to customize your multiplayer color and emblem. On the armor detail color, there is a small painted VI most noticeable on Mark VI shoulder.
[[Image:Armor Permutations.png|300px|thumb|right|All of the Spartan Permutations. Note: If a part of the armor set doesn't exist it has been substituted with Mark VI.]]
*'''''Steel''''', '''Silver''', and '''''White'''''
*'''''Red''''', '''Mauve''', and '''''Salmon'''''
*'''''Orange''''', '''Coral''', and '''''Peach'''''
*'''''Gold''''', '''Yellow''', and '''''Pale'''''
*'''''Sage''''', '''Green''', and '''''Olive'''''
*'''''Teal''''', '''Aqua''', and '''''Cyan'''''
*'''''Blue''''', '''Cobalt''', and '''''Sapphire'''''
*'''''Violet''''', '''Orchid''', and '''''Lavender'''''
*'''''Crimson''''', '''Rubine''', and '''''Pink'''''
*'''''Brown''''', '''Tan''', and '''''Khaki'''''
*'''Black''' can still be used but, only in Forge or Custom gametypes, as a forced player color under general settings.
*'''Zombie''' a slightly more yellowish version of '''Green''' to make players look like zombies. Only available in Forge or Custom gametypes as a forced player color under general settings.


==Appearances==
*[[MJOLNIR Armor|MJOLNIR Mark VI armor]] - The Standard Spartan armor.
===Original ''Halo 3''===
*[[Mark VI MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/C variant|MJOLNIR Mark VI [C] variant]] - The Close Quarters Battle (CQB) armor.
''For subjects that appear in the terminals, see [[Terminal (Halo 3)#Appearances|here]].''
*[[Mark VI MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/V variant|MJOLNIR Mark VI [V] variant]] - The Extra Vehicular Activity (EVA) armor.
{{Featurelist|secondcolumn=title-5
*[[Mark VI MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/EOD variant|MJOLNIR Mark VI [EOD] variant]] - The Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) armor.
|title-1=Characters|
*[[Mark VI(A) MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor|MJOLNIR Mark VI [A] variant]] - The Rogue helmet. 
'''[[Human]]'''
*[[Mark VI MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/S variant|MJOLNIR Mark VI [S] variant]] - The Scout armor.
*[[John-117]]
*[[Mark VI MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/R variant|MJOLNIR Mark VI [R] variant]] - The Recon armor.
*[[Avery Johnson]]
*[[Mark V MJOLNIR (Armor permutation)|MJOLNIR Mark V armor]] - The ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' helmet.
*[[Miranda Keyes]]
*[[Mark V(m) MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor|MJOLNIR Mark V [m] variant]] - The Security helmet and shoulders.
*[[Terrence Hood]]
*[[ODST Armor|ODST armor]] - The [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper]] helmet.
*[[Hocus]] {{1st}}
*[[Hayabusa Powered Assault Armor|HAYABUSA armor]] - The rival to the MJOLNIR program armor.
*[[Reynolds]] {{1st}}
*[[Katana]] - Sword that is non removable positioned on back
*[[Marcus Stacker]]
*[[Bungie Armor]] - Makes the players helmet appear to be on fire - exclusive to the Bungie workers.
*[[Chips Dubbo]]


'''[[Sangheili]]'''
According to Bungie on March 14th 2008, Weekly Update;
*[[Thel 'Vadam]]
*'''Most Popular Spartan Helmets are:''' [[Mark VI]], [[Rogue]], [[Hayabusa]], [[CQB]] and [[ODST]].'''
*[[Rtas 'Vadum]]
*'''Most Popular Spartan Chestpieces are:''' [[CQB]], [[Hayabusa]], [[Mark VI]], [[EVA]], [[EOD]].'''
*[[N'tho 'Sraom]] {{1st}}
*[[Usze 'Taham]] {{1st}}


'''[[San'Shyuum]]'''
=====Elite=====
*[[Prophet of Truth]]
[[Image: Elite Armor Permutations.png|200px|right|thumb|All Elite armor permutations available]]
*[[Elite Combat Armor]] - The standard Elite armor.
*[[Elite Assault Armor]] - The type of armor worn by Elites of the [[Special Operations Elite|Special Operations]] rank.
*[[Elite Flight Armor]] - The type of armor worn by Elites of the [[Ranger Elite|Ranger]] rank. Flight Body: Successfully complete the "Tsavo Highway" mission on the Heroic or Legendary difficulty setting.


'''[[Jiralhanae]]'''
Flight Head: Successfully complete Campaign mode on the Heroic difficulty setting.
*[[Cethegus]] {{1st}}
*[[Tartarus]] {{Mo}}


'''[[Unggoy]]'''
Flight Shoulders: Successfully complete "The Ark" mission on the Heroic or higher difficulty setting.
*[[Flipyap]] {{Fm}}


'''[[Flood]]'''
*[[Gravemind]]


'''[[Artificial intelligence]]'''
*[[Elite Commando Armor]] - The Commando armor is the armor worn by Commando Elites. Commando Body: Accomplish the "Triple Kill" achievement.
*[[Cortana]]
*[[343 Guilty Spark]]


|title-2=Species and entities|
Commando Head: Accomplish the "Overkill" achievement.
*[[Human]]
**[[UNSC Marines]]
*[[Sangheili]]
**[[Special Operations Sangheili|SpecOps]]
**[[Sangheili Major|Major]]
**[[Sangheili Minor|Minor]]
*[[Jiralhanae]]
**[[Jiralhanae War Chieftain|War Chieftain]]
**[[Jiralhanae Chieftain|Chieftain]]
**[[Jiralhanae Captain Ultra|Captain Ultra]] {{1st}}
**[[Jiralhanae Captain Major|Captain Major]] {{1st}}
**[[Jiralhanae Captain|Captain]]
**[[Jiralhanae Bodyguard|Bodyguard]] {{1st}}
**[[Jiralhanae Jumper|Jumper]]
**[[Jiralhanae Stalker|Stalker]] {{1st}}
**[[Jiralhanae Ultra|Ultra]] {{1st}}
**[[Jiralhanae Major|Major]]
**[[Jiralhanae Minor|Minor]]
*[[Unggoy]]
**[[Special Operations Unggoy|SpecOps]]
**[[Unggoy Heavy|Heavy]]
**[[Unggoy Major|Major]]
**[[Unggoy Minor|Minor]]
*[[Kig-Yar]] (''Ruuhtian'')
**[[Kig-Yar Major|Major]]
**[[Kig-Yar Sniper|Sniper]]
**[[Kig-Yar Minor|Minor]]
*[[Lekgolo]]
**[[Mgalekgolo]]
*[[Yanme'e]]
**[[Yanme'e Minor|Minor]]
*[[Flood]]
**[[Pod infector]]
**[[Flood combat form]]
**[[Flood carrier form]]
**[[Flood pure form]] {{1st}}
***[[Flood stalker form]] {{1st}}
***[[Flood ranged form]] {{1st}}
***[[Flood tank form]] {{1st}}
*[[Artificial intelligence]]
**[[Smart AI]]
***[[Avatar]]
**[[Sentinel]]
***[[Aggressor Sentinel]]
***[[Constructor]]
***[[Guardian Sentinel]] {{1st}} {{C|Hologram only}}
**[[Monitor]]
*[[Fish]]


|title-3=Organizations|
Commando Shoulders: Accomplish the "Killing Frenzy" achievement.
*[[Ecumene]]
**[[Forerunner Fleet Command]] {{Fm}}
*[[UEG]]
**[[UNSC]]
***[[UNSC High Command]]
****[[UNSC Communications Commission]] {{Fm}}
***[[UNSC Marine Corps]]
****[[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper]]s
***[[UNSC Navy]]
****[[Seventh Fleet]] {{1st}}
*****[[Battle Group Victory]] {{1st}}
****[[UNSC Special Forces|Naval Special Warfare]]
*****[[SPARTAN-II program]]
***[[Office of Naval Intelligence]]
****[[ONI Recon 111]] {{1st}}
**[[Voi Greater Outlands Police Bureau]] {{Fm}}
**[[Western African Committee on Missing Persons]] {{Fm}}
*[[Covenant separatists]]
**[[Fleet of Retribution]] {{1st}}
*[[Covenant]]
**[[Covenant military]]
**[[Covenant fleet]]
**[[Vheiloth]]
*[[Flood]]


|title-4=Locations|
 
*[[Epoloch system]] {{1st}}
*[[Elite Ascetic Armor]] - The Ascetics Elite armor.
**[[Requiem]] {{1st}}
Ascetic Body: Accomplish the "Up Close and Personal" achievement.
*[[Installation 00]] {{1st}}
**[[Cartographer]]
**[[Foundry (location)|Foundry]] {{1st}}
**[[Installation 00 Citadel|Citadel]] {{1st}}
*[[Installation 08]] {{1st}}
**[[Control Room (Installation 04)|Control Room]]
**[[Phase pulse generator]]
*[[High Charity]]
**[[Sanctum of the Hierarchs]]
**[[Mausoleum of the Arbiter]]
*[[Sol system]]
**[[Earth]]
***[[East African Protectorate]]
****[[Kenya]]
*****[[Crow's Nest (location)|Crow's Nest]] {{1st}}
*****[[New Mombasa]] {{Mo}}
******[[Mombasa Tether]] {{c|Wreckage}}
*****[[Outpost C9]] {{1st}}
*****[[Voi]] {{1st}}
******[[Traxus Factory Complex 09]] {{1st}}
******[[Traxus Factory Complex 71]] {{1st}}
*****[[Voi Municipal Water Pump House 03]] {{1st}}
*****[[Tsavo]] {{1st}}
******[[Tsavo highway (location)|Tsavo Highway]] {{1st}}
*******[[Checkpoint 8]] {{Fm}}
****[[Tanzania]]
*****[[A2 Hydroelectric Facility]] {{1st}}
*****[[Arusha]] {{Fm}}
*****[[Mount Kilimanjaro]] {{1st}}
*****[[Zanzibar Island]]
******[[Wind Power Station 7]]
***[[Sector 331]] {{Fm}}


|title-5=Events|
Ascetic Head: Accomplish the "Steppin' Razor" achievement.
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
**[[Battle of Installation 05]] {{Mo}}
**[[Battle for Earth]]
**[[Battle of Installation 00]] {{1st}}
***[[Battle of the Citadel]]
*[[Great Schism]]
*[[Raid on High Charity]] {{1st}}
*[[Raid on Installation 08]] {{1st}}
*[[Voi Memorial]] {{1st}}


|title-6=Weapons|
Ascetic Shoulders: Accomplish the "Overkill" achievement.
====UNSC====
*The armor of the arbiter is only wearable in campaign mode.
;Usable
*[[7 wood]] {{1st}}
*[[AIE-486H Heavy Machine Gun]] {{1st}}
*[[Class-2 Guided Munition Launch System]] {{1st}}
*[[BR55HB battle rifle]]
*[[LAU-65D/SGM-151 missile pod]] {{1st}}
*[[M247T machine gun]]
*[[M41 rocket launcher]]
*[[M41 Vulcan]]
*[[M512 smooth-bore high-velocity cannon]]
*[[M6 Spartan Laser]]
*[[M68 Gauss cannon]]
*[[M6C/SOCOM]] {{MCCo}}
*[[M6G magnum]]
*[[M7 SMG]]
*[[M7057 flamethrower]]
*[[M7S SMG]] {{MCCo}}
*[[M9 fragmentation grenade]]
*[[M90 shotgun#M90A variant|M90A shotgun]] {{1st}}
*[[MA5C assault rifle]]
*[[SRS99D-S2 AM sniper rifle]]
*[[Type 14 Magnetic/Anti-Tank Mine]] {{C|Gametype-specific use only}}


;Unusable
====Emblems====
*[[Anvil-II air-to-surface missile]]
{{Main|Multiplayer Emblems}}
*[[M370 autocannon]]
An Emblem is a highly customizable image that appears on the right arm of a Spartan and the back an Elite. There are thousands of possibilities for your emblem!
*[[Machine-linked autocannon#M9109 ASW/AC 50mm|M9109 ASW/AC 50mm]]
*[[Magnetic Accelerator Cannon]]
*[[Point-defense gun]]
**[[M870 Rampart point defense gun]]
*[[Surface-to-air missile launcher]] {{1st}}
*[[Improvised UNSC bomb]] {{1st}} {{C|Story-specific use only}}


====Covenant====
Emblems also show your teammates what Spartan you are. This was made by the ONI Research Center of the Spartan Program and has no use at all since the Spartans can check each other through Service Tags, so Emblems are just an addition.
;Usable
*[[Class-2 directed energy cannon]]
*[[Fuel rod cannon]]
*[[Class-1 directed energy cannon#Light plasma cannon (Prowler)|Light plasma cannon]]
*[[Energy sword]]
**[[Type-1 energy sword]]
*[[Plasma grenade]]
**{{Pattern|Anskum|plasma grenade}}
*[[Gravity hammer (fiction)|Gravity hammer]]
**[[Akelus Workshop gravity hammer]]
*[[Jovokada Workshop spike grenade]]
*[[Orgudam Workshop firebomb]] {{1st}}
*[[Spike cannon]]
*[[Spiker]]
**[[Paegaas Workshop Spiker]]
*[[Plasma pistol]]
**{{Pattern|Eos'Mak|plasma pistol}}
*[[Plasma rifle]]
**{{Pattern|Okarda'phaa|plasma rifle}}
*[[Brute shot]]
**[[Jovokada Workshop Brute Shot]]
*[[Plasma mortar#Type-26 35cm Directed-Energy Mortar|Type-26 Directed-Energy Mortar]]
*[[Shade]]
**{{Pattern|Rizsheda|Shade}}
*[[Needler]]
**[[Type-33 needler]]
*[[Fuel rod gun]]
**{{Pattern|Pez'tk|fuel rod gun}}
*[[Beam rifle]]
**{{Pattern|Sulok|beam rifle}}
*[[Carbine]]
**{{Pattern|Vostu|carbine}}
*[[Ukala Workshop Mauler]] {{1st}}
*[[Plasma cannon]]
**{{Pattern|Pek|plasma cannon}}


;Unusable
According to Bungie on March 14th 2008, Weekly Update;
*{{Pattern|Shuku|sentry turret}} {{1st}}
*'''Most Popular Emblems:''' Phoenix, Jolly Roger, Valkyrie, Crossed Sword and Champion
*[[Energy projector]]
*[[Focus cannon]]
*[[Heavy plasma cannon]]
*[[Plasma cannon (starship)|Plasma cannon]]
*[[Pulse laser turret]]
*{{Pattern|Skar'wa|Mantis}} {{1st}}


====Forerunner====
====Colors====
;Usable
There are 10 base and primary colors, each with three shades of one another that are used to customize your multiplayer color and emblem. On the armor detail color, there is a small painted VI (most noticeable on Mark VI shoulder), and there is a stripe on the Spartans' leg and arm.
*[[Sentinel Beam]]
*'''''Steel''''', '''Silver''', and '''''White'''''
*'''''Red''''', '''Mauve''', and '''''Salmon'''''
*'''''Orange''''', '''Coral''', and '''''Peach'''''
*'''''Gold''''', '''Yellow''', and '''''Pale'''''
*'''''Sage''''', '''Green''', and '''''Olive'''''
*'''''Teal''''', '''Aqua''', and '''''Cyan'''''
*'''''Blue''''', '''Cobalt''', and '''''Sapphire'''''
*'''''Violet''''', '''Orchid''', and '''''Lavender'''''
*'''''Crimson''''', '''Rubine''', and '''''Pink'''''
*'''''Brown''''', '''Tan''', and '''''Khaki'''''
*'''Black''' can still be used but, ''only in Forge or Custom games types'', as a forced player color under general settings.


|title-7=Vehicles|
According to Bungie on the March 14th 2008, Weekly Update;  
==== UNSC ====
*'''More Popular Primary Colors:''' Steel, White, Blue, Cobalt, Green, Sage
;Usable
*'''Less Popular Primary Colors:''' Lavender, Pale, Salmon, Peach and Mauve
*[[AV-14 Hornet]]
*[[M12 Warthog]]
**[[M12 Chaingun Warthog]]
**[[M12G1 Gauss Warthog]]
**[[M831 Troop Transport]]
**[[M12 Warthog#Other models|M864 Arctic]] {{1st}}
*[[M274 Mongoose]]
*[[M313 Elephant]] {{1st}}
**E-2073 46833-S {{1st}}
*[[M808C Scorpion]]


;Unusable
===Matchmaking===
*[[Albatross]]
[[Matchmaking]] is where people can play with and against each other through a specially designed search system and multiple playlists. In Matchmaking [[EXP]] and [[Skill]] can be earned to raise ranks. You have a highest skill which cannot be taken away, but your current skill level can decrease if you play poorly in that variant. Also, on some maps like Guardian and Narrows, various equipment such as the [[Flare]] and [[Radar Jammer]] have been removed due to balance changes.
*[[Cart]] {{1st}}
*[[Crassus-class supercarrier]] {{1st}}
*[[D77H-TCI Pelican]]
*[[Drop pod]]
**[[M8823 drop pod]]
*[[F-99 Wombat]] {{1st}}
*[[GA-TL1 Longsword]]
*[[S-2 Traxus Cargo Transporter]] {{1st}}
*[[Tractor unit]]
*[[UNSC frigate]]
**{{Class|Charon|light frigate}} {{1st}}
***{{UNSCShip|Aegis Fate}} {{1st}}
***{{UNSCShip|Forward Unto Dawn}} {{1st}}


==== Covenant ====
====Playlists====
;Usable
[[Playlists]] are lists of different game variations from free-for-all to team games. They are split into Ranked, Social, Hardcore, Community, DLC, Tournaments and Double EXP Weekends. The Community Playlist returned on July 7, 2008 with the release of the free map Cold Storage.
*[[Chopper]]
**[[Barukaza Workshop Chopper]] {{1st}}
*[[Banshee]]
**{{Pattern|Irdnekt|Banshee}} {{1st}}
*[[Ghost]]
**{{Pattern|Karo'etba|Ghost}}
*[[Wraith]]
**{{Pattern|Zurdo|Wraith}}
*[[Qavardu Workshop Prowler]] {{1st}}


;Unusable
=====Ranked=====
*{{Pattern|Kerel|assault carrier}}
The Ranked playlists are the more serious playlists. [[Skill]] can be raised and [[EXP]] can be gained.
**''[[Shadow of Intent]]'' {{1st}}
*[[Lone Wolves]] - Various gametypes free for all up to six players.
*{{Pattern|Ket|battlecruiser}}
*[[Team Slayer]] - Slayer based gametypes with two teams of three to four players.
**''[[Indulgence of Conviction]]'' {{1st}}
*[[Team Objective]] - Objective based gametypes with two teams of three to four players.
*[[Drop pod]]
*[[Team Doubles]] - Slayer based gametypes with two teams of two players.
**{{Pattern|Udka|Assault Carapace}}
*[[Squad Battle]] - Various gametypes with two team of six designed to fill some of the void left by excising Ranked Big Team Battle from the Halo 3 Playlists.
*[[High Charity]]
*[[Seraph]]
**{{Pattern|Kai|seraph}}
*[[Scarab]]
**{{Pattern|Deutoros|Scarab}}
*[[Wraith]]
**{{Pattern|Ogab'd|anti-aircraft Wraith}} {{1st}}
*[[Phantom]]
**{{Pattern|Ru'swum|Phantom}}


====Forerunner====
=====Social=====
;Unusable
The Social playlists are the more relaxed playlists. [[EXP]] can be gained and guests are allowed.
*[[Keyship]]
*[[Rumble Pit]] - Various gametypes free for all up to eight players. ''Have now been updated to DLC.''
**[[Forerunner Dreadnought]]
*[[Big Team Battle]] - Various gametypes with two teams of five to eight players. ''This playlist has been expired.''
*[[Social Slayer]] - Slayer based gametypes with two teams of five players.
*[[Social Skirmish]] - Objective based gametypes with two teams of four to five players.
*[[Multi-Team]] Various gametypes with four teams of two players. (This includes the "Rocket Race" gametype since the original playlist has as of September 2008, retired.)
The DLC Playlists have now been deleted. Now it is two new social playlists instead:
*[[Social Team DLC]] It's like a mix of Social Slayer and Social Skirmish but it's a DLC playlist so you need to buy Legendary Map pack pack to play it. It's two teams of four to five players like in Slayer and Skirmish.
*[[Social Big Team]] Like in Big Team Battle, two teams of five to eight players but it's DLC like Social Team DLC.


|title-8=Technology and equipment|
=====Hardcore=====
;[[Equipment]]
The Hardcore playlists are the more realistic and competitive playlists. [[Skill]] can be raised and [[EXP]] can be gained.
*[[Bubble Shield]]
*<!--Please Create Page-->[[Head to Head]] - [[Slayer]], [[Oddball]] and [[King of the Hill]] gametypes free for all up to two players. ''This playlist has been retired.''
*[[Power drain|Power Drain]] {{1st}}
*[[MLG]] - Various MLG gametypes on MLG map variants with two teams of three to four players. ''The MLG map variants were updated to v6 in the April 2009 playlist update.''
*[[TR/9 Antipersonnel Mine|Trip Mine]] {{1st}}
*[[Team SWAT]] - Ranked teams of 3/4 players playlist where players have to kill others with headshots (or enough body shots).
*[[Portable gravity lift|Portable Gravity Lift]] {{1st}}
*[[Team Snipers]] - Ranked 4v4 playlist. Sniper Rifle spawns (no secondary weapons unless the game is shotty snipers) on maps forged with Beam Rifles.
*[[Radar jammer|Radar Jammer]] {{1st}}
*[[Flare]] {{1st}}
*[[Regenerator]] {{1st}}
*[[Deployable Cover]] {{1st}}
*[[Invincibility]] {{1st}}
*[[Forerunner automated turret|Automated Turret]] {{1st}}
*[[Cloaking]] {{1st}}


;[[Power-up]]s
=====Tournaments=====
*[[Active Camouflage]]
The Tournaments are temporary playlists involving prizes. [[Skill]] can be raised and [[EXP]] can be gained.
*[[Custom Powerup]] {{1st}}
*[[Living Dead]] - [[Infection]] up to thirteen players.
*[[Overshield]]
*[[Valentines Day]] - Various gametypes with two teams of two.


;Armor
=====Community=====
*[[Jiralhanae power armor]] {{1st}}
This playlist made a comeback as of July 7, 2008; with the free release of the map [[Cold Storage]], but was taken off by July 11.  [[EXP]] can be gained and guests are allowed.
*[[Kig-Yar combat harness]]
*Icy Treats - Various gametypes of free for all on the newly released map Cold Storage.
*[[Kig-Yar targeting headgear]]
*[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor]]
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark V|Mark V]] {{c|upgraded helmet only}}
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark VI|Mark VI]]
***[[ROGUE-class Mjolnir|Rogue]] {{1st}}
***[[CQB-class Mjolnir|CQB]] {{1st}}
***[[EOD-class Mjolnir|EOD]] {{1st}}
***[[SECURITY-class Mjolnir|Security]] {{1st}}
***[[RECON-class Mjolnir|Recon]] {{1st}}
***[[SCOUT-class Mjolnir|Scout]] {{1st}}
***[[EVA-class Mjolnir|EVA]]
***[[Project HAYABUSA]] {{1st}}
*[[ODST armor]]
*[[Sangheili harness]]
**[[Arbiter body armor]]
**[[Ascetic harness]] {{1st}}
**[[Assault harness]] {{1st}}
**[[Commando harness]] {{1st}}
**[[Flight harness]] {{1st}}
**[[Ultra-class armor]]
**[[Combat harness|Sangheili combat harness]]
*[[Unggoy combat harness]]


;Other
<!--Notes about a specific playlist don't belong here-->
*[[Covenant communication node]] {{1st}}
*[[Covenant storage device|Covenant data storage unit]]
*[[Plasma battery|Covenant plasma battery]]
*[[Roadblock|Covenant roadblock]]
*[[Data crystal chip]]
*[[Covenant watchtower]]
*[[Distress beacon]] {{1st}}
*[[Energy shielding]]
**[[Sangheili personal energy shield]]
*[[Fusion drive]]
*[[Holotank]]
**[[Portable holo-pedestal]]
*[[Identification friend or foe]]
*[[Kig-Yar point defense gauntlet]]
*[[Medical scanner]] {{1st}}
*[[Methane tank]]
*[[Portable computer]]
*[[Repulsor engine]]
*[[Shield door]]
*[[Fusion coil|UNSC fusion core]]
*[[UNSC Navy uniforms]]
**[[UNSC Navy Service Uniform]]
**[[UNSC Navy working uniform]]
*[[Z-9930 Information Vector Console]] {{1st}}


|title-9=Miscellaneous|
=====Double EXP Weekend=====
*[[49-6-39]] {{Fm}}
The Double EXP Weekend variants are temporary playlists involving new gametypes. The double amount of [[EXP]] can be gained and guests are allowed.
*[[Equipment Control Key Code]] {{Fm}}
*[[Grifball]] - Neutral [[Assault]] on a custom [[Foundry]] map variant with two teams of three to four players.
*[[Remote Network Control]] {{Fm}}
*[[Living Dead]]  - [[Infection]] up to thirteen players.
*[[Sangheili (language)]]
*[[Legendary Brawl]]  - Various gametypes on Standard, [[Heroic Map Pack|Heroic]] and [[Legendary Map Pack|Legendary]] maps, free for all up to twelve players.
*[[Standard Issue Personel - Mobile Field Bunk]] {{1st}}
*[[Mythic Brawl]]  - Various gametypes on Standard, [[Heroic Map Pack|Heroic]], [[Legendary Map Pack|Legendary]] and [[Mythic Map Pack|Mythic]] maps, free for all up to twelve players.
*[[UNSC site operation security initiatives]] {{Fm}}
*[[Fiesta]] - Various gametypes with random weapons on Standard, [[Heroic Map Pack|Heroic]] and [[Legendary Map Pack|Legendary]] Maps.
}}
*[[Team Snipers]] - Sniper based [[Team Slayer]] on Standard, [[Heroic Map Pack|Heroic]] and [[Legendary Map Pack|Legendary]] maps.
*[[Rockets]] - Rocket based gametypes free for all up to eight players.
*[[3 Ball]] - [[Oddball]] with 3 Oddballs and four teams of three players.
*[[Team Melee]] - A variety of gametypes featuring Melee weapons  [[Gravity Hammer]] and/or the [[Energy Sword]].
*[[Rocket Race]] - A [[VIP]] variant in which a team of 2 players must reach certain objective before the opposing team does, While riding in a mongoose and scoping out the others using Rocket Launchers.
*[[Team Flag]] - A skirmish variant, where teams of five compete for the flag in [[Heroic Map Pack|Heroic]] and [[Legendary Map Pack|Legendary]] maps.


===''Halo: The Master Chief Collection only''===
====Veto====
{{Main|Halo: The Master Chief Collection}}
The Veto system is new for the Halo franchise. Vetoing a map and game type is a very useful thing these days. In a game, after the map and game type loads for each player, a 10 second countdown starts. If the majority of players in the match decide to veto, by pressing the (X) button, before the countdown ends, a different map and gametype from the playlist will be selected to be played on. But most times if you don't like the game that you get and you veto you will most likely get a game you like even less.(Note that not all playlists have the veto option).
Following the release of ''Halo 3'' onto the PC version of ''Halo: The Master Chief Collection'', more story elements have appeared, a number of which are carried over from ''[[Halo Online]]''.
{{/Appearances/MCC}}


== Development ==
For Example: If there are a total of eight people in the game (classic four versus four), and five or more people veto, the map and game type will change. If only four or less players veto, however the map and gametype will remain and be played on.
=== Design ===
{{Expand-section}}


=== Engine ===
If a map and gametype is vetoed, the option to veto will be lost during the next countdown. Sometimes you will see the map and gametype change, but you still get the veto option. This is just because the host's connection cannot support the map, or if anyone in the party cannot play the map. When this happens, you still have the right to veto the next map and game type. However, you cannot veto on a few gametypes, such as [[Grifball]].
{{Main|Halo 3 Engine}}
The unnamed '''''Halo 3'' Engine'''<ref name="igntrailer">[http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/706/706251p1.html '''E3 2006''': ''Halo 3 Trailer Impressions'']</ref> is the game engine developed for and implemented in ''Halo 3'' and ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''. Its unique features include advanced graphics technologies such as [[wikipedia:High Dynamic Range|high dynamic range]], global lighting, and [[wikipedia:Depth of field|depth of field]] effects within cutscenes.<ref>[http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3158071 '''1 Up''': ''Bungie Says Halo 3 Graphics are Coming Together'']</ref>


=== Audio ===
Note: On certain gametypes, like Team SWAT, the gametype will be rarely changed from the only three types, but from no lack of maps, the map will almost certainly change.
''Halo 3'' utilises Waves audio plugin which allows audio to be processed in real time as the game engine generates the audio calls.<ref name="waves">[https://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?cid=12878 '''Bungie.net''': ''Waves Audio Plug-ins in Halo 3'']</ref>
{{Expand-section}}


== Matchmaking ==
====Ranks====
{{Main|Matchmaking}}
The ranking system is based on real military ranks. To progress in Rank, players must earn the required amount of [[EXP]]. For [[Officer]] ranks, players must also reach a certain skill level in a ranked playlist. If a player earns a certain amount of experience, but does not reach the required skill level to reach the next officer rank, they will instead be promoted to a higher grade of their current rank (For example, A [[Major]] who earns 200 [[EXP]] but does not have a skill level of 35 will be promoted to Major, Grade 2 upon earning 300 EXP).
Matchmaking is where people can play with and against each other through a specially designed search system and multiple playlists. In matchmaking, [[Experience Points|EXP]] and [[Skill (Halo 3)|Skill]] can be earned to raise ranks. Also, on some maps like "Guardian" and "Narrows", various equipment such as the [[Flare]] and [[Radar jammer|Radar Jammer]] have been removed due to balance changes.


=== Playlists ===
Each Officer rank has a "final" grade which is represented by a unique name instead of a number. Gunnery Sergeant also has this feature. Many players judge others that have the grade 4 rank or "gold bars" as a sign of lack in skill, though not necessarily always true.
{{Main|Playlist}}
Playlists are lists of different game variations from free-for-all to team games. They are split into Ranked, Social, Hardcore, Community, DLC, Tournaments and Double EXP Weekends.


=== Veto ===
Halo 3 uses the [http://research.microsoft.com/osa/apg/trueskill.aspx Trueskill] system created by Microsoft to determine skill level in ranked playlists.
The Veto system is a new addition to ''Halo 3''. In a game, after the map and game type loads for each player, a 10 seconds countdown starts. If the majority of players in the match decide to veto, by pressing the (X) button, before the countdown ends, a different map and gametype from the playlist will be selected to be played on.  


If a map and gametype is vetoed by a majority of players, the option to veto will be lost during the next countdown. In some cases, players will see the map and gametype change, but players still get the veto option. This is just because the host's connection cannot support the map, or if anyone in the party cannot play the map. When this happens, you still have the right to veto the next map and game type.
=====Enlisted Ratings=====
*[[Recruit]]
*[[Apprentice]] (grades 1 and 2)
*[[Private (Halo 3)|Private]] (grades 1 and 2)
*[[Corporal (Halo 3)|Corporal]] (grades 1 and 2)
*[[Sergeant (Halo 3)|Sergeant]] (grades 1, 2, and 3)
*[[Gunnery Sergeant (Halo 3)|Gunnery Sergeant]] (grades 1, 2, 3, and Master Gunnery Sergeant)


=== Ranks ===
=====Officer Ratings=====
{{Main|1=Rank (Halo 3)|l1=Rank}}
*[[Lieutenant (Halo 3)|Lieutenant]] (grades 1, 2, 3, and First Lieutenant)
The ranking system is based on real military ranks. To progress in rank, players must earn the required amount of EXP. For [[Commissioned officer|Officer]] ranks, players must also reach a certain skill level in a ranked playlist. If a player earns a certain amount of experience, but does not reach the required skill level to reach the next officer rank, they will instead be promoted to a higher grade of their current rank (For example, A [[Major]] who earns 200 [[Experience Points|EXP]] but does not have a skill level of 35 will be promoted to Major, Grade 2 upon earning 300 EXP).
*[[Captain (Halo 3)|Captain]] (grades 1, 2, 3, and Staff Captain)
*[[Major (Halo 3)|Major]] (grades 1, 2, 3, and Field Major)
*[[Commander (Halo 3)|Commander]] (grades 1, 2, 3, and Strike Commander)
*[[Colonel (Halo 3)|Colonel]] (grades 1, 2, 3, and Force Colonel)
*[[Brigadier (Halo 3)|Brigadier]] (grades 1, 2, 3, and Brigadier General)
*[[General (Halo 3)|General]] (grades 1, 2, 3, and Five Star General)


Each Officer rank has a "final" grade which is represented by a unique name instead of a number. Gunnery Sergeant also has this feature. Many players judge others that have the grade 4 rank or "gold bars" as a sign of lack in skill, though not necessarily always true. ''Halo 3'' uses the [http://research.microsoft.com/osa/apg/trueskill.aspx Trueskill] system created by Microsoft to determine skill level in ranked playlists.
===Custom Games===
In the [[Custom Games]] Lobby you can choose the gametypes and maps you have made and want to play with your friends, these include Custom Game types and Map Variants. These games don't give you exp but they are still fun to play around with friends.


== Modes ==
====Standard Game Types====
=== Custom games ===
{{Main|Custom game}}
In the Custom Games Lobby, players are given the option to choose the gametypes and maps players have made and want to play with their friends, these include Custom Game types and Map Variants. Unlike matchmaking, custom games do not give EXP.
 
==== Standard gametypes ====
<!--In-game description-->
<!--In-game description-->
*[[Slayer]] - Kill your enemies. Kill your friends' enemies. Kill your friends.
*[[Slayer]] - Kill your enemies. Kill your friends' enemies. Kill your friends.
Line 622: Line 489:
*[[VIP]] - One player on each team is Very Important. Take down the enemy's VIP for points, but take care of your own.
*[[VIP]] - One player on each team is Very Important. Take down the enemy's VIP for points, but take care of your own.


==== Custom gametypes ====
====Custom Game types====
In ''Halo 3'', there are a number of options that can be changed for custom games. By pressing X in the pregame lobby the host can change the default options, to whatever the player chooses and can save the changes when finished by pressing X again to save as custom game type.
In Halo 3, there are a number of options that can be changed. Press X in the lobby to change the default options, when changing press X again to save as custom game type.


Options that can be changed:
Options that can be changed:
Line 645: Line 512:
*Over shields and active camouflage can be given to a certain team/player or everyone on spawn or re-spawn.
*Over shields and active camouflage can be given to a certain team/player or everyone on spawn or re-spawn.


=== Forge ===
===Forge===
{{Main|Forge}}
{{Main|Forge}}
Forge is an "object editor" that can be used to edit multiplayer maps. It does not allow as much freedom to edit/make maps as a PC map editor, such as the ''[[Halo Custom Edition|Halo: Custom Edition]]'' and ''[[Halo 2 (Windows Vista)|''Halo 2'' for Windows Vista]]'' editing kits. Players can, however, edit objects, spawn points, weapons, teleporters and properties of objects on the map, etc. While in a forge map, players may start editing maps by press up on the D pad; when a player goes into edit mode they take on the appearance of a Forerunner Monitor similar to 343 Guilty Spark. The player now obtains the ability to spawn weapons, vehicles and objects in-game, as well as move and adjust them. New DLC maps like Sandbox and Foundry will allow a player to make their own map using the amount of objects included in the map. While the forge may not allow as much freedom as other map editors, it makes it easier for a player to make a map with "simple" objects.
Forge is an "object editor" that can be used to edit multiplayer maps. It does not allow as much freedom to edit/make maps as a PC map editor, such as the [[Halo: Custom Edition]] and [[Halo 2 Vista]] editing kits. You can, however, edit objects, spawn points, weapons, teleporters and properties of objects on the map, etc. And, when playing a map on forge, players may take control as a monitor (very similar to 343 Guilty Spark) and will obtain the ability to spawn weapons, vehicles and objects in-game, as well as move/adjust them too. You can also get more forging items if you get any of the new map packs from Bungie.
 
The Forge may not allow as much "freedom", but makes it easier to adjust levels.Allowing you to make things with "simple" objects much easier.
====Map Variants====
To save a Map Variant while playing forge, press Start and select save changes to overwrite the previous Map Variant or select Save As and give it a name. If it doesn't say ''save changes'' simply save it as a new variant (naming it differently than your original) and delete your original when you return to the lobby.
*note* you can only save 100 custom content so dont make a map without knowing you can save it.


=== Theater ===
===Theater===
{{Main|Theater}}
The Theater mode allows players to save films from the [[Campaign]], [[Multiplayer]], and [[Forge]], and also get film clips and screen shots. This feature of ''Halo 3'' has been exploited for making [[Machinima]] videos and Montages.
The Theater mode allows players to save films from the [[Campaign]], [[Multiplayer]], and [[Forge]], and also get film clips and screen shots. This feature of ''Halo 3'' has been exploited for making [[Machinima]] videos and Montages.


==== Films ====
====Films====
Saved Films allow a player to view any game, campaign or multiplayer, from any angle. It uses game data to re-create the games, which makes file sizes very small (5 MB for a 15-minute multiplayer match). In the film, players can either watch themselves play through an entire mission or match, or use a bird's eye view to see the bigger scope of how the match or mission plays. Players can go anywhere they want, within the limitations of invisible barriers, so that players cannot fly as high as possible or go very far from their character. In multiplayer matches, players can fast forward or rewind the film so that players can relive the parts you missed. Campaign films cannot be rewound for technical reasons. Only the previous 25 games will be saved under the recent films category on the Xbox 360 console. Older films will be deleted.
Saved Films allow a player to view any game, campaign or multiplayer, from any angle. It uses game data to re-create the games, which makes file sizes very small (5 MB for a 15 minute multiplayer match). In the film, you can either watch your own player play through the entire mission or you can use a different way: bird's eye view. You can go anywhere you want, but they will limit your movement so that you cannot fly as high as possible or go very far from your character. You can also fast forward or rewind the film so that you can relive the parts you missed. On Campaign you can't rewind the film. Only your previous 25 games will be saved under the recent films category on your console. Older films will be deleted. (Note: If you haven't received the February Auto-Update, after your first 25 film slots are filled, about 1 out of the 3-5 films in future will only be saved due to a glitch. The AU fixes this glitch, but not entirely however, as all games played on Local area Network on the 360 still mostly have this problem.)


==== Clips ====
====Clips====
When playing a film, players can record a particular part of the film from any angle they want. Doing this allows players to look back at their saved clip without having to watch the entire film. Players, however, cannot record clips of campaign films due to unknown technical reasons. If players are in a party viewing a film, they will not be able to record clips, nor take screenshots. Also, players may find that when viewing a film clip in a party, the film will not load until there is only one player left in the party.
When playing a film you record a particular part of the film from any angle you want. Doing this allows you to look back at your greatest moments without having to watch the entire film, however, sometimes the [[HUD]] will not show up in a first person view, or the time bar showing the elapsed time appears, which is normally a problem because it normally can't be removed or the HUD can't be brought up for the start of the clip. If you would like to make a clip in FPS mode, but you accidentally get out of it, or switch to another player, you can just click on the right thumbstick to return to FPS mode. You cannot record clips of campaign films, but you can take screenshots. If you are in a party viewing a film, you will not be able to record clips, nor take screenshots.


==== Screenshots ====
====Screenshots====
Screenshots can be taken in any sort of film; all screenshots taken by Xbox Live players are sent to [[Bungie.net]] via the Internet. You must be in single-player theater or film to take a screenshot. Screenshots that are favored by many or impress Bungie employees may be uploaded to [[Bungie Favorites]].
Screenshots can be taken in any sort of film; all screenshots taken by Xbox Live players are sent to [http://www.bungie.net Bungie.net] via the Internet. You must be in single-player theater or film to take a screenshot. If your screenshot is favored by many and also [[Bungie]] employees they may put it on [[Bungie Favorites]]. The favorites link can be found [http://www.bungie.net/online/communityfiles.aspx?filefilter=772007&sort=3 here]


== Soundtrack ==
==Soundtrack==
{{Main|Halo 3: Original Soundtrack}}
[[Image:200px-halo3soundtrack.jpg|right|thumb|Halo 3 Soundtrack Cover Art]]
The ''Halo 3: Original Soundtrack'' was composed by [[Martin O'Donnell]] with the help of [[Michael Salvatori]] and was released on November 20, 2007. It is a two-disc set featuring all the music heard in-game, in order of appearance.
The [[Halo 3: Original Soundtrack]] was composed by [[Martin O'Donnell]] with the help of [[Michael Salvatori]] and was released on November 20, 2007. It is a two-disc set featuring all the music heard in-game, in order of appearance.
As the [[Halo: Original Soundtrack]], the music is in more of a medley format. However, similar to the [[Halo 2: Original Soundtrack]] Volume 2, tracks are divided into 'suites' corresponding to each level in the game. A number of bonus tracks and a third-party song will be contained on the second disc of the album: 'LvUrFR3NZ' by Princeton.


== Marketing promotions ==
Previews of the ''[[Halo 3: Original Soundtrack]]'' can be heard on the official site <ref>http://www.halo3ost.com/</ref>.
=== Viral Campaigns ===
==== Beta and Epsilon ====
{{Main|Halo 3 Beta|Halo 3 Epsilon}}
The ''Halo 3'' Beta was a phase in the development of ''Halo 3'', produced by Bungie Studios and organized by Microsoft. A public version of the beta was released to the public for three weeks to give people an early chance to play the game and to test amounts of stress on the servers.


Several months after the Beta was closed down, Bungie released ''Halo 3 Epsilon'', an internal-only ''Halo 3'' build, to Microsoft employees. The Epsilon featured Campaign (both single-player and cooperative gameplay) on the level Tsavo Highway, as well as Forge and multiplayer on six maps: Epitaph, High Ground, Last Resort, Sandtrap, Snowbound, and Valhalla.
==Marketing Promotions and Release==
====Viral Marketing====


==== Iris ====
{{Main|Iris}}
{{Main|Iris}}
On June 11, 2007, at 10:26AM PDT, the viral marketing campaign for ''Halo 3'' started, with a believed "hacking" of Bungie.net's forums throughout the next several months fans followed the various clues and hints to unlock "servers" which would reveal the final moments of the Forerunners. [[Halo 3: The Cradle of Life|Cradle of Life]]: The Cradle of Life is a short flash animation web comic, and is one of the first parts of the Iris campaign.


==== Believe ====
On June 11th, 2007, at 10:26AM PDT, a viral marketing campaign for ''Halo 3'' started, called "''[[Iris]]''".
{{Main|Believe}}
Believe was the marketing slogan and campaign for ''Halo 3'' developed by both Bungie Studios and Microsoft. The word "Believe" appears to be honoring the legacy of SPARTAN-117, citing him as a hero of humanity whose brave actions inspired other servicemen of the United Nations Space Command during the final days of the Human-Covenant War. It has been noted that the Believe trailers took place about 50 years after ''Halo 3''{{'}}s storyline.


=== Trailers ===
====Trailers====
==== Announcement trailer ====
=====Announcement Trailer=====
{{Main|Halo 3 Announcement Trailer}}
{{Main|Halo 3 Announcement Trailer}}
''Halo 3'' was officially announced via a cinematic trailer rendered in real-time, on May 9, 2006 during the Microsoft press conference. The reveal utilized real-game assets, fiction and locations. The trailer shows John-117 walking through wreckage of the [[New Mombasa]] space elevator with Cortana appearing at several intervals. He then stops at the edge of a cliff where the Covenant forces are hovering over a [[Forerunner]] [[Portal at Voi|structure]].  The trailer ends with the structure opening and firing a beam of light.
At E3 2006, [[Bungie]] released their announcement trailer. It required long hours and hard work from many, many Bungie staffers, and utilizes real-game assets, fiction and locations from parts of the "real" game. It shows John-117 walking through some wreckage of the [[New Mombasa]] space elevator with Cortana appearing at several intervals to give her lines. He then stops at the edge of a cliff where the Covenant forces are hovering over a [[Forerunner]] structure (believed to be the Ark).  The trailer ends with the Forerunner structure opening and firing a beam of light.


==== Starry Night ====
The Trailer fueled speculation about what was going to happen in the game, particularly Cortana's last line in the trailer: "''This'' is the way the world ends,"<ref>''Please have Cortana's lines pronounced so that I don't see 36 threads about it.''
{{Main|Starry Night}}
 
The Starry Night trailer was released on December 4, 2006 during Monday Night Football on ESPN. It shows two children staring at the stars talking about whether there is life out there in the universe, before switching to a dazed [[John-117|Master Chief]] recovering from some form of blast. Once back on his feet, he picks up his helmet and then uses a [[Bubble Shield]] to defend himself from an incoming [[Zurdo-pattern Wraith|Wraith]]'s plasma mortar. He then quickly charges forward, eventually jumping over a cliff into a swarm of [[Covenant Empire|Covenant Loyalists]]. It is speculated, yet left to interpretation, that the two children are [[John-117]] and [[Kelly-087]] when they were young.
:"I have defied gods and demons."
:"I am your shield, I am your Sword."
:"I know you, your past, your future."
:"This is the way the world ends."
 
[[Frankie]] --[http://www.bungie.net/News/TopStory.aspx?link=weeklyupdatemay1206 Weekly Update May 12, 2006]</ref> which references the first of the [[Cortana Letters]]. The line itself refers to [[wikipedia:T. S. Eliot|T. S. Eliot]]'s ''The Hollow Men'', which ends:


==== ViDoc: Et Tu, Brute? ====
:''This is the way the world ends''
{{Main|Halo 3 ViDoc: Et Tu, Brute?}}
:''Not with a bang but a whimper.''
The Et Tu Brute ViDoc was released before the end of 2006 and was a behind-the-scenes look at the development of ''Halo 3'', specifically focusing on the Brutes in ''Halo 3''. This 7:03 min clip interviews various Bungie employees about the Brutes, their development and flaws in ''Halo 2'', and how they were expanded upon in ''Halo 3''.


==== ViDoc: Is Quisnam Protero Damno! ====
Cortana's emphasis on "this" implies she is rejecting the poem, and that the world will end with a bang - likely referring to the Halo installations being activated.
{{Main|Halo 3 ViDoc: Is Quisnam Protero Damno!}}
The Is Quisnam Protero Damno ViDoc was released several months before the release of the ''Halo 3'' Beta. The video focuses on the multiplayer in ''Halo 3''. This 7:12 minute clip interviews various Bungie employees about the development of the various multiplayer aspects of the game.


==== ViDoc: Cinema Paradiso ====
====Starry Night Trailer====
{{Main|Halo 3 ViDoc: Cinema Paradiso}}
{{Main|Starry Night}}
Cinema Paradiso is the third and final ViDoc released by Bungie before the release of ''Halo 3''. Released on September 20, 2007 the 7:13 video interviews various Bungie employees about the development of the theater and forge features of the game.
Starry Night Trailer was released on December 4, 2006 with its format designed for TV Ads. It shows two children staring at the stars talking about whether there are aliens before switching to a dazed [[Master Chief]] recovering from some form of blast. Once he gets back on his feet, he picks up his helmet and then he uses a [[Bubble Shield]] to defend himself from an incoming [[Type-25 Assault Gun Carriage|Wraith]]'s plasma mortar and then charges forward, eventually jumping over a cliff into a swarm of [[Covenant Loyalists]]. It has been rumored that the two kids are [[John]] and [[Kelly]] when they where young.


==== E3 2007 Trailer ====
====E3 2007 Trailer====
{{Main|Halo 3 E3 2007 Trailer}}
{{Main|Halo 3 E3 2007 Trailer}}
Revealed at the end of Microsoft's E3 press conference on July 11 this trailer was the final trailer to show off the actual game itself and unlike the previous trailers, the ''Halo 3'' E3 2007 trailer focused on showing various gameplay and cinematic clips. While the trailer did little to further knowledge about the ''Halo 3'' plot, it confirmed many speculations about the game, the least of which was that the Arbiter and the [[John-117|Master Chief]] will fight alongside one another in the game.  
The final trailer for ''Halo 3'' was released during E3 2007.  Unlike the others, this trailer focused on showing various gameplay and movie clips. While the trailer did little to further knowledge about the ''Halo 3'', it confirmed many speculations about the game, the least of which was that the Arbiter and the [[Master Chief]] will fight alongside one another in the game at some point.


==== Halo: Landfall ====
====Believe====
{{Main|Halo: Landfall}}
{{Main|Believe}}
Halo: Landfall is a trilogy of short films that were designed to promote the release of ''Halo 3''. Directed by [[Neill Blomkamp]] with props and costume design by [[WETA Workshop]] Landfall tells the story of two [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper|ODSTs]] on a mission to coordinate Master Chief's rescue.
Believe is a Microsoft marketing campaign for ''Halo 3''.
=== Merchandise and Promotions ===
{{Halo 3 editions}}
''Halo 3'' was released in three separate versions. The Standard Edition contains the game disc, manual, and a small poster with the game's control-map and artwork. The Limited Edition, contained in a metal case, contains the game disc, manual, poster, interactive Xbox 360 bonus disc with several featurettes, and a hard cover bound "Bestiarum", which is a collection of information and art covering the species, cultures, and civilizations of ''Halo 3''. The final version was marketed as the "Legendary Edition", which contains the game disc, manual, poster, interactive bonus disc, Bestiarum (on one of the DVD discs), Legendary DVD containing special content exclusive to the Legendary Edition, and a scale replica of the Master Chief's helmet as a case for the three discs.


The launch of ''Halo 3'' also coincided with the release of various games, action figures, collectibles and marketing promotions. This included a Halo 3 Spartan Edition Controller and [[Halo 3 Covenant Edition Controller]] that features ''Halo 3'' themed artwork from renowned artist Todd McFarlane. The controllers included a Master Chief figurine. While previous ''Halo'' action figure series were produced by [[Joyride Studios]] the studios closure in 2007 allowed Todd McFarlane's [[McFarlane Toys]] to release ''Halo 3'' Action Figures. On September 18, 2007 Wizkids released the [[Halo ActionClix]] collection. The tabletop game features miniature characters and vehicles from the ''Halo'' universe. Microsoft also collaborated with Pepsi-Cola to release the first promotional soft drink for a video game. [[Mountain Dew Game Fuel]] was a soda which was released on August 13, 2007 and was available for 12 weeks to promote the launch of ''Halo 3''. 7-Eleven sold a Slurpee version of the drink along with several collectible cups. On September 16, 2007 Microsoft released a ''Halo 3'' edition of the Xbox 360. The console includes various ''Halo 3'' themed items including a ''Halo 3'' headset, and special exclusive gamer pics and themes only available to those who purchase the console.  As part of the ''Halo 3'' marketing assault Microsoft also released a Halo Trilogy-themed [[Halo 3 Zune|Zune media player]]. It features Halo content in many media formats including exclusive artwork from the trilogy and a special [[Red vs Blue]] PSA. Master Replicas also released ornament [[Halo 3 Scale Replica Weapons|Halo 3 scale replica weapons]]. [[Wikipedia:Burger King|Burger King]] also announced a ''Halo 3'' Promotion from a Microsoft press release on August 9, 2007, the promotion which started September 24  including limited edition FRYPODS and 42 oz drink cups featuring Halo designs and characters on food wrappings. Pontiac produced a special [[wikipedia:Pontiac G6|Pontiac G6]] GXP Street Edition, outfitted with a ''Halo 3'' styled paint job. It was part of a sweepstakes hosted by [[wikipedia:Best Buy|Best Buy]], called the ''Best Buy Play & Win Sweepstakes''.<ref>[http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=12761 '''Bungie.net''': ''Best Buy’s Golden Gift to Halo Players'']</ref>
It features the word "Believe" as a tag line, and appears to be honoring the legacy of SPARTAN-117, citing him as a hero of the United Nations Space Command Defense Force whose brave actions inspired other servicemen during the Human-Covenant War. It has also been cited that it has been linked to the popular message board Neogaf. Its been noted that the Believe trailers took place about 50 years after Halo 3's storyline.


There was also a song called [[Face It]] commissioned by Microsoft in Australia, performed by Australian rapper ''Phrase'' and the Australian band ''Karnivool''.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFtwu__b31E '''Youtube''' ''- Face it'']</ref>
====Landfall====
{{Main|Halo: Landfall}}
Halo: Landfall is a trilogy of short films designed to promote ''Halo 3'' as well as test the potential for a live-action [[Halo Movie]].


== Release and reception ==
====Versions====
{{Halo 3 reviews}}
{{Halo 3 Versions}}
''Halo 3'' was called the most sought-after video game of 2007,<ref>[http://www.vita.mn/story.php?id=12329421 '''Vita.mn''': Video games: ''Halo effect'']</ref><ref>[http://news.teamxbox.com/xbox/14463/Master-Chief-Immortalized-in-Wax-at-Madame-Tussauds/ '''Team Xbox by IGN''': ''Master Chief Immortalized in Wax at Madame Tussauds'']</ref> and one of the most hyped video games of all time.<ref name="pittsburgh">[http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/s_529167.html '''Pittsburgh Tribune-Review''': ''Halo 3 gamers brave midnight openings'']</ref><ref>[http://www.totallygn.com/2009/06/12/halo-3/ '''Totally IGN''': ''Halo 3'']</ref><ref>[http://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/halo_s_new_heights_keep_gamers_up_at_night_06-18-2008_09_52_07.html '''Beaumont Enterprise''': ''Halo's new heights keep gamers up at night'']</ref>
''Halo 3'' was released in three separate versions. The Standard Edition contains the game disc, manual, and a small poster with the game's control-map and artwork.  
Prior to its launch, ''Halo 3'' was expected to be one of the biggest entertainment events of the year,<ref>[http://www.daytondailynews.com/e/content/oh/story/entertainment/2007/09/24/ddn092507lifehalo.html '''Dayton Daily News''': '''Halo 3' drops the hammer'']</ref> and among the biggest entertainment releases of all time.<ref>[http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2007/may07/05-15Halo3LaunchPR.mspx '''Microsoft News Center''': ''“Halo 3” to Make Entertainment History on Sept. 25'']</ref><ref>[http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=130125&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1055079&highlight= '''GameStop''': ''Hollywood and GameStop Roll out the Red Carpet for Halo 3 Launch'']</ref><ref>[http://www.ioltechnology.co.za/article_page.php?iSectionId=2887&iArticleId=4061398 '''IOL Techonology''': ''Halo 3 vying with movie blockbusters'']</ref><ref>[http://www.dailystar.co.uk/posts/view/16187/Halo-3/ '''Daily Star''': ''Simply The Best 7 Days A Week: Game On: Halo 3'']</ref> Additionally, ''Halo 3'' was expected to stir the sales of the Xbox 360 console<ref>[http://news.cnet.com/8301-13506_3-9783413-17.html '''CNET News''': ''Why 'Halo 3' will decide the Xbox 360's fate'']</ref><ref>[http://www.ioltechnology.co.za/article_page.php?iSectionId=2887&iArticleId=5020969 '''IOL Technology''': ''Microsoft's 'Halo 3' launches amid spectacle'']</ref> - being a "killer application".<ref>[http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/life/stories/2007/09/25/1_HALO25_--_home_entertainme.AR0_ART_09-25-07_D3_C580JGG.html '''The Columbus Dispatch''': ''All hail Halo 3'']</ref><ref>[http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/business/20070925-9999-1n25halo.html '''SignOnSanDiego''': ''Microsoft pins Xbox 360 hopes on 'Halo 3' sales'']</ref> The craziness of the ''Halo 3'' launch was compared to the madness of the iPhone, Harry Potter books and Star Wars movies releases.{{Ref/Reuse|pittsburgh}}


As with its predecessors, ''Halo 3'' was considered a very successful, record-breaking game. With 1.7 million preorders in the U.S, few expected it not to break any records. 24 hours after release, however ''Halo 3'' had generated a record-breaking $170 million in the U.S, beating the $155 million that Microsoft was expecting. Although Microsoft never released a 24-hour sales figure, it is estimated to have sold in the region of 2.4 - 2.5 million copies within 24 hours of availability in the U.S. - approximately 1.8 million units after 8 hours - with that number increasing to 3.3 million units, 12 days after release. Within 24 hours, over 1.1 million gamers had played ''Halo 3'' on Xbox Live. One week after release, over 2.7 million players - nearly one-third of the total Xbox LIVE members at that time - had played it on Xbox Live. As of November 17, 2008, ''Halo 3'' had reportedly sold 8.8 million copies worldwide.
The Limited Edition, contained in a metal case, contains the game disc, manual, poster, interactive Xbox 360 bonus disc with several featurettes, and a hard cover bound "Bestiarum", which is a collection of information and art covering the species, cultures, and civilizations of ''Halo 3''.  


''Halo 3'' has received mainly positive reviews from both the online gaming sites and country specific magazines. Each review has praised it, stating ''"the winning formula is still apparent"'' with ''"multiplayer constantly surprising and engaging"'', while new features of ''Forge'' and ''Saved Films'' were singled out as particularly interesting new features. ''Halo 3'' has also gone on to win a number of awards from:  
The final version was marketed as the "Legendary Edition", which contains the game disc, manual, poster, interactive bonus disc, Bestiarum (on one of the DVD discs), Legendary DVD containing special content exclusive to the Legendary Edition, and a scale replica of the Master Chief's helmet as a case for the three discs. The slip-cover packaging unfolds into a large heavy-stock poster of Master Chief.<ref>http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=12531</ref> Gamestation stores in the UK also offered a limited edition Master Chief figurine only available to the first 1000 pre-orders.<ref>[http://www.mcfarlanes-figures.com/halo-3.html McFarlane Toys Figurines]</ref>


*'''''Spike TV Awards''''': Best Multiplayer Game, Most Addictive Video Game Fueled by Dew.
====Products and Collectibles====
*'''''TIME''''': Game of the Year.<ref>[http://www.time.com/time/specials/2007/top10/article/0,30583,1686204_1686305_1692236,00.html '''TIME''': ''Top 10 Everything of 2007'']</ref>
[[Image:Halo3-360.jpg|thumb|Halo 3 Edition [[Xbox 360]] with [[SPARTAN]] gold and dark green hardware.]]
*'''''Geezer Gamers''''': Geezer Game of the Year, Multiplayer Game of the Year.  
*[[Halo 3 Spartan Edition Controller]]
*'''''Gametrailers''''': 2007's Best Xbox 360 Game of the Year, Best Multiplayer of the Year, Best First Person Shooter
*[[Halo 3 Covenant Edition Controller]].
*'''''X-Play Presents "G-Phoria"''''': Game of the Year.  
*[[Mountain Dew Game Fuel]] is a new version of Mountain Dew soda which was released on August 13th, 2007 and was available for 12 weeks.
*'''''EDGE''''': The Edge Award For Interactive Innovation.
*Bungie has worked with Jasman Toys and they will be showcasing the new [[Halo Laser Tag Replica Guns]].
*'''''IGN''''': Xbox 360 Best Online Multiplayer, Xbox 360 Most Innovative Design.
*Todd McFarlane's line of [[McFarlane Toys|Halo 3 Action Figures]].
*There is a Halo 3 edition of the Xbox 360. It was released on September 16th, and has other items in the box like a wired Halo 3 headset. But it only has 20 gigabytes.
*The [[Halo 3 Zune]] is a Zune in a Halo Trilogy-theme. It features Halo content in many media formats. Included in the Zune, are trailers, music, and artwork, from the critically acclaimed Halo series and a special [[Red vs Blue]] episode.
*[[Halo 3 scale replica weapons]]. These are just ornaments and are not toys.
*[[Burger King]] announced a Halo 3 Promotion from a Microsoft press release on August 9th, 2007 including limited edition FRYPODS and 42 oz drink cups.
*[[Halo ActionClix]] including special figures like Jump Pack Brutes, [[Master Chief]] with dual Spikers, Brute Stalkers, and a few others.


== ''Halo 3: ODST'' ==
====Halo 3: ODST====
{{Main|Halo 3: ODST}}
{{Main|Halo 3: ODST}}
''Halo 3: ODST'' was originally intended to be campaign extension that covered the events of the [[Battle of Earth]], and ends roughly one month before ''Halo 3'' begins. However, during its development, ''ODST'' quickly evolved into what was essentially a full game in its own right. In ''ODST'', the player takes control of an Orbital Drop Shock Trooper as he navigates though the Covenant occupied New Mombasa trying to discover the fate of his fellow squad members.
ODST is a campaign extension that covers events leading up to Halo 3. The trailer opens up on a security camera in New Mombassa. It shows several scenes of destruction before turning upward and showing several [[HEV]] Pods fall towards the city. It first appeared on Bungie.net. It now has circulated through YouTube and other video hosting websites. You take control of an ODST soldier, and survive through the Covenant-controlled New Mombassa.  Campaign will be similar to normal Halo games, but since you are no longer a Spartan nor Elite, you will have to choose your battles carefully. Bungie recently stated that the expansion is set to be released in the end of 2009.


== Trivia ==
==Reviews and Reaction==
*At precisely 6:36pm PST on the 28th of February 2009, in a three-minute and nineteen second game of Infection on Foundry, four players participated in ''Halo 3'''s one billionth match.<ref name="billionth">[http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=CGHV33KGD2R9D3W9V4QY7MF9Q '''Bungie.net''': ''One BILLION Served'']</ref> In comparison, ''[[Halo 2]]'' has to date only had 800 million games played.
{{Halo 3 Receptions}}
*For Christmas 2006, Microsoft and [[Bungie]] gave U.S. Troops in Iraq a chance to play the ''Halo 3'' multiplayer alpha build of the game.<ref>[http://news.teamxbox.com/xbox/12501/US-Soldiers-Get-to-Play-Halo-3-Beta-Footage-Leaked/ '''Team Xbox''': ''U.S. Soldiers Get to Play Halo 3 Beta, Footage Leaked'']</ref>
''Halo 3'' has received mainly positive reviews from both the online gaming sites and country specific magazines. Each review has praised it, stating ''"the winning formula is still apparent"'' with ''"multiplayer constantly surprising and engaging"'', while new features of ''Forge'' and ''Saved Films'' were singled out as particularly interesting new features.
*On the Cops & Robbers commercial for the Xbox 360 at the Xbox Live Marketplace, one of the license plates says HA LO307, or ''Halo 3'' 07.
*The game has 39,377 lines of dialogue, most of them randomly triggered during game play.<ref>[http://nikon.bungie.org/news.html?item=20971 '''Halo.Bungie.org''': ''Halo Dialogue Statistics, from the source'']</ref>
*The original ''Halo 3'' before the Auto-Update 2 patch contained 49 [[Achievement]]s, which is a seven reference [[Seven|7]]x7=49, and these together are worth 1000 [[Gamerscore]].
*To date, the Campaign kill count online has surpassed the current Human population on [[Earth]].
*Argos, a UK retail store, started accidentally selling copies of the game one week prior to the actual release date. All ''Halo 3'' products were removed from shelves when the store realized its mistake. However, a number of copies still made it into the hands of the public and a video showcasing the ending made it onto YouTube.
*''Halo 3'' multi-player was shown at the Penny Arcade Expo as the final round of the Omegathon and showed the level [[Guardian (map)|Guardian]] before its release date.
*''Halo 3'' has been referenced in [[List of outside references to the Halo series|various examples of outside media]]. Footage of ''Halo 3'' can be seen in an episode of [[wikipedia:Sarah Connor Chronicles|The Sarah Connor Chronicles]] and [[wikipedia:Glee (TV series)|Glee]] as well as in the feature film [[Wikipedia: Jumper (film)|Jumper]], [[Wikipedia:Bride Wars|Bride Wars]], [[Wikipedia:Knight Rider (2008 film)|Knight Rider]], and [[Wikipedia:|CSI: Miami]], although in Jumper and CSI, an original Xbox controller is used. Also, ''Halo 3'' game play is featured in music videos for the songs <nowiki>'</nowiki>''[[Wikipedia:Beggin'#Other cover versions|Beggin]]''<nowiki>'</nowiki> by [[Wikipedia:Madcon|Madcon]] and <nowiki>'</nowiki>''[[Wikipedia:Riverside (song)|Riverside]]''<nowiki>'</nowiki> by [[Wikipedia:Sidney Samson|Sidney Samson]]. In addition, in the movie [[Wikipedia: Eagle Eye|Eagle Eye]], the two main characters venture into a Circuit City, where they receive shocking news. In the background before they enter a room, one can see a ''Halo 3'' promotional poster behind them. This poster can also be seen in the background in ''[[Wikipedia:The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008 film)|The Day the Earth Stood Still]]''.
*''Halo 3'' was released on the 25th of September, this is most likely a [[seven]] reference (2+5=7).
*[[Forge]] is one of the new features not seen in previous games. Along with [[Theater]] mode, these two allow things not available in other games. Forge is accurately described as an object editor, allowing the player to customize many aspects of the game from scenery to weapons.
*As of 1 March 2009, the total amount of online [[Matchmaking]] time accounted to 2,023,153,340,764 seconds, equal to 64,109 years of playtime.{{Ref/Reuse|billionth}}
*Players who played this game with their current LIVE account will unlock the ''Halo 3'' [[Nameplates|Visual Flair]] in ''[[Halo: Reach]]''.
*During development, Bungie staff planned out where all the missions take place on the Ark, including cut content. This was done to assist level designers with the creation of skyboxes among other things for the game.{{Ref/YouTube|Id=Lorestream|fYaxRoAf96s|HALO|Halo Lore Stream: The Halo Array|Y=2018|M=04|D=06|343 discuss the Halo Array}}


==Gallery==
Halo 3 has won a number of awards from its first release date:
===Logos===
<gallery>
File:EPK H3 Logo.jpg|The full ''Halo 3'' logo.
File:Halo 3 Logo Large.png|The abbreviated version of the ''Halo 3'' logo.
</gallery>


===Cover art===
*'''''Spike TV Awards''''': Best [[Multiplayer]] Game, Most Addictive Video Game Fueled by Dew, Game Of The Year 2007
<gallery>
*'''''TIME''''': Game of the Year. <ref> http://www.time.com/time/specials/2007/top10/article/0,30583,1686204_1686305_1692236,00.html </ref>
File:Halo3-GameCover.jpg|The cover art for ''Halo 3''.
*'''''Geezer Gamers''''': Geezer Game of the Year, Multiplayer Game of the Year.
File:H3 Full Cover Art No Logos.jpg|The full cover art.
*'''''Gametrailers''''': 2007's Best Xbox 360 Game of the Year.
</gallery>
*'''''X-Play Presents "G-Phoria"''''': Game of the Year.
{{clear}}


===Concept art===
==Trivia==
<gallery>
[[Image:H3limitedmanual.jpg|thumb|The Manual that comes with the Halo 3 Limited Edition. This manual's cover is different from the regular version.]]
File:Halo 3 promo 1.jpg|Concept art of John-117 leading a group of ODSTs.
*At precisely 6:36pm PST on the 28th of February 2009, in a three minute and nineteen second game of Infection on Foundry, four players participated in Halo 3's one billionth match. <ref>http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=CGHV33KGD2R9D3W9V4QY7MF9Q</ref>
File:Halo 3 promo 2.jpg|Concept art of John-117 standing behind Cortana.
*For Christmas 2006, Microsoft and [[Bungie]] gave the U.S. soldiers in Iraq a chance to play the ''Halo 3'' multi-player public pre-alpha. <ref>[http://news.teamxbox.com/xbox/12501/US-Soldiers-Get-to-Play-Halo-3-Beta-Footage-Leaked/]</ref>
File:Halo 3 promo 3.jpg|Concept art of John-117 with Pelican flying overhead.
*On the Cops & Robbers commercial for the 360 at the Xbox Live Marketplace, one of the license plates says HA LO307, or Halo 3 07.
File:Halo 3 promo 4.jpg|Concept art of UNSC personnel in a town.
*The game has 39,377 lines of dialogue, most of them randomly triggered during game play. <ref>[http://nikon.bungie.org/news.html?item=20971 Halo Dialogue Statistics, from the source] - HBO, November 12, 2007</ref>
File:H3 - Manual interior.jpg|Concept art of John-117 amidst the ruins of the [[Mombasa Tether]].
*The original ''Halo 3'' (before the Auto-Update 2 patch) contains 49 [[Achievements]], which is a seven reference [[7]]x7=49, and these together are worth 1000 [[Gamerscore]] points.
File:H3 - Poster Chief-Arby.jpg|Concept art of Arbiter Thel 'Vadam and John-117.
*To date, the Campaign kill count online has surpassed the current Human population on [[Earth]]. On Bungie.net, players tried to reach 7 billion campaign kills before Bungie day (7/7) in reference and homage to the iconic number 7. They succeeded in reaching the kill count only a few days after the deadline.
File:H3 - Concept - Master chief.jpg|Concept art of John-117 with an [[M41B SPNKr]].
*Argos, a UK retail store, started accidentally selling copies of the game one week prior to the actual release date. All Halo 3 products were removed from shelves when the store realized its mistake. However, a number of copies still made it into the hands of the public and a video showcasing the ending made it onto YouTube.
</gallery>
*''Halo 3'' multi-player was shown at the Penny Arcade Expo as the final round of the Omegathon and showed the level [[Guardian (Level)|Guardian]] before its release date.
 
*''Halo 3'' game play footage can be seen in an episode of [[wikipedia:Sarah Connor Chronicles|The Sarah Connor Chronicles]] as well as in the feature film Jumper, Knight Rider, and CSI: Miami, although in Jumper and CSI an original X-Box controller is used. Also, ''Halo 3'' game play is featured in the music video for the song Beggin' by Madcon. In addition, in the new movie Eagle Eye, the two main characters venture into a Circuit City, where they receive shocking news. In the background before they enter a room, you can see a Halo 3 promotional poster behind them.
=== Screenshots ===
*''Halo 3'' was released on the 25th of September, this is most likely a [[seven]] reference (2+5=7).
<gallery>
*[[Forge]] is one of the new features not seen in previous games. Along with [[Theater]] mode, these two allow things not available in other games. Forge is accurately described as a object editor, allowing the player to customize many aspects of the game from scenery to weapons. Glitches and Easter Eggs are commonly found using Forge.
File:H3 MasterChiefhighres.jpg|Early image of John-117.
*So far, [[Bungie]] has released all Halo 3 material, [[Downloadable Content]], and any other content on Tuesdays within the US. This includes Halo 3's launch, Title Update 1, the [[Heroic Map Pack]], the [[Legendary Map Pack]],[[Title Update 2]],and the [[Mythic Map Pack]] with [[Halo Wars]].
File:Val ext3.jpg|The map Valhalla.
*Before and during the launch of Halo 3, 7-11 sold 3 different Halo 3 cups to advertise the game.
</gallery>
*Mountain Dew came out with a new drink called '[[Mountain Dew Game Fuel|Game Fuel]]' for the Halo 3 launch.
 
*The Human-Covenant War ends in 2553, [[John-117]] joins the UNSC at the age of 6 in 2517, making him a 42 year old veteran (42/6=7)...yet another 7 by [[Bungie]].
=== Manual cover art candidates ===
*When zooming in, there is a series of binary digits in the lower right corner.  When converted they spell "Dave".
<gallery>
*On Saturday, February 28th, the 1 billionth online [[Matchmaking]] game over [[Xbox Live]] was played. It was an [[Infection]] gametype on [[Foundry (Level)|Foundry]].<ref>http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=CGHV33KGD2R9D3W9V4QY7MF9Q</ref> In comparison, [[Halo 2]] has to date only had 798 million games played.
File:Halo3 manual 1.jpg|Proposed cover art for the ''Halo 3'' manual featuring John-117 in a group of Marines.
*As of 1st March 2009, the total amount of online [[Matchmaking]] time accounted to 2,023,153,340,764 seconds, equal to 64,109 years of playtime.<ref>http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=CGHV33KGD2R9D3W9V4QY7MF9Q</ref>
File:Halo3 manual 2.jpg|Proposed cover art for the ''Halo 3'' manual featuring John-117 standing in front of a Pelican.
*Halo 3 Multiplayer Spartans have little lights on their armor that glow the same color as the primary armor color. However, Master Chief's, whose armor is a completly different shade of green than possible for multiplayer, lights glow blue.
File:Halo3 manual 3.jpg|Proposed cover art for the ''Halo 3'' manual featuring John-117 and Cortana.
*When playing Campaign, Master Chief only speaks in 7 cut scenes (excluding the legendary ending). Yet another 7 reference.
File:Halo3 manual 4.jpg|Proposed cover art for the ''Halo 3'' manual featuring John-117 and the Arbiter fighting together.
*In the Legendary ending in Halo 3, Master Chief ends the series the same way it begins, by going into a cyro tube.
</gallery>
*Rumor has it that Halo 3 is going to be for Windows 7.(Halo Combat Evolved=XP Halo 2=Vista)
 
===Promotional material===
<gallery>
File:Pontiac H3.jpg|The ''Halo 3''-themed Pontiac.
File:Pontiac H3 2.jpg|The interior of the Pontiac.
File:H3 Promotional Chief image.jpg|Image of [[John-117]] used in several Halo 3 promotional works.
File:H3 EGMCover.jpg|Artwork of three [[SPARTAN-II program|Spartan-II]]s featured on the cover of [[Wikipedia:Electronic Gaming Monthly|Electronic Gaming Monthly]].
File:H3 EGMCoverAlt.jpg|A recolored version of the previous artwork.
File:H3 Teaser Rd8 01HR.jpg|Title promotional poster.
File:H3 Promotional Poster.jpg|Promotional poster.
File:H3 Promotional Poster Horizontal.jpg|Expanded version of the promotional poster.
File:H3 ChiefPromo1.jpg|Promotional sketch of John-117.
File:H3 ChiefPromo2.jpg|Another promotional sketch.
File:H3 ChiefPromo3.jpg|Another promotional sketch.
File:H3 Concept GameProSketch1.jpg|Concept sketch of the ''Halo 3'' ''[[Wikipedia:GamePro|GamePro]]'' magazine cover.
File:H3 Concept GameProSketch2.jpg|Another concept sketch of the ''GamePro'' cover.
File:H3 - Multiplayer concept art.jpg|Finalized artwork for the ''GamePro'' magazine cover.
File:H3 Concept OXMCover.jpg|Concept of a ''Halo 3''-themed cover for the ''[[Wikipedia:Official Xbox Magazine|Official Xbox Magazine]]''.
</gallery>


==Notes ==
==Related==
{{Ref/Notes}}
===Internal Links===
== Sources ==
*[[Changes in Halo 3]]
{{Ref/Sources|2}}
*[[Halo 3 Announcement Trailer]]
*[[Halo 3 Credits]]
*[[Starry Night|60sec ESPN Commercial Starry Night]]
*[[ViDoc: Et Tu Brute]] - a [[7]] min documentary about the Brutes ViDoc: Et Tu Brute
*[[ViDoc: Is Quisnam Protero Damno]]
*[[ViDoc: Cinema Paradiso]]
*[[Halo 3 Beta]]
*[[Halo 3 Zune]] - A limited edition Microsoft Zune.
*[[Halo 3 Achievements]]
*[[Halo 3: The Cradle of Life]]
*[[Halo 3 Official Strategy Guide]]
*[[Halo 3: Original Soundtrack]]
*[[Burger King]]
*[[Character Compatibility]]


==See also==
===External Links===
*[[Halo 3 credits|Halo 3 Credits]]
*[http://halo3.com Halo 3 Website] - The Official ''Halo 3'' Website
*[[Halo 3: The Official Strategy Guide]]
*[http://www.addictgaming.com/videos/Halo_3/Halo_3_Trail/ Halo 3 Trail Commercial]
*[http://halowiki.net halowiki.net] - ''Halo 3'' Multiplayer Strategy


== External links ==
==Sources==
*[http://halo.bungie.net/projects/halo3/default.aspx ''Official project page on '''Bungie.net''']
<references/>


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