Editing Halo 4

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{{Game Infobox

|image= [[File:Halo 4 standard edition (ESRB Rating Pending).png|300px|center]]

|developer= [[343 Industries]]

|releasedate= November 6th, 2012 <ref name="Waypoint 4172012">[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/04/17/The-Halo-Bulletin-41712.aspx '''Halo Waypoint:''' ''The Halo Bulletin 4.17.2012'']</ref>

|genre=

|modes= [[Campaign]]<br/>[[Cooperative]]<ref name="Panel 3"/><br/>[[Multiplayer]]<ref name="Panel 3"/><br/>[[Forge]]<ref name="Panel 3"/>

|rating=

{{quote|Wake up, John.|Official tagline<ref name="waypoint"/><ref name="marketplace">[http://www.xbox.com/en-US/Marketplace/Product/Halo-4 '''Xbox.com''': ''Halo 4'']</ref>}}

'''''Halo 4''''' is the seventh installment in the bestselling [[Halo universe|''Halo'' franchise]] for the [[Xbox 360]].<ref name="waypoint">[http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/titles/halo4 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Halo 4'']</ref><ref name="Xbox 360"/> A [[Awakening|teaser trailer]] shown at [[Microsoft]]'s [[Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3 Media Briefing]] on [[2011|June 6th, 2011]] confirmed that ''Halo 4'' is to be the first installment in a new trilogy of games,<ref name="E3">[[wikipedia:Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3 2011]]</ref> which was identified as the ''[[Reclaimer Trilogy]]'' during Halo Fest at [[Wikipedia:Penny Arcade Expo|PAX Prime 2011]].<ref>[http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/related/video/halo-4-panel-opening-video/98674976-d76d-4c91-8048-084c9cf7982b '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Halo 4 Panel Opening Video'']</ref><ref name="h4panel">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JD429ZWcQ_w '''YouTube''': ''Halo Fest: Halo 4 Panel'']</ref> Set four and a half years after the events of ''[[Halo 3]]'', ''Halo 4'' will continue the story of [[John-117]] and [[Cortana]] left abandoned on the remains of the {{UNSCShip|Forward Unto Dawn}}. The two survivors drift endlessly towards the mysterious world of [[Requiem]] and the ancient evil within. ''Halo 4'' is the first game developed by [[343 Industries]], the management team in charge of the ''Halo'' franchise, and will be published by [[Microsoft Studios]]; it will be released worldwide on November 6th, 2012. <ref name="Waypoint 4172012"/>

[[File:H4-E3-Campaign-2.jpg|300px|thumb|right|John-117 on Requiem.]]

{{Quote|Set in the aftermath of [[Halo 3]], Master Chief returns to confront his own destiny and face an ancient evil that threatens the fate of the entire universe. Halo 4 marks the start of a new trilogy that begins with its release in 2012.|Official summary<ref name="waypoint"/><ref name="marketplace"/>}}

''Halo 4'' marks the return of [[John-117]] as a playable protagonist after three ''Halo'' games focusing on different sets of characters.<ref name="waypoint"/><ref name="marketplace"/> Having been lost in space for five years after the finale of ''Halo 3'',<ref name="gtinterview">[http://www.gametrailers.com/video/interview-story-halo-4/727566 '''Gametrailers.com''': ''Interview: Story And Vision HD'']</ref> John-117 and [[Cortana]], adrift aboard the wreckage of the aft section of the [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]] [[Charon-class light frigate|frigate]] ''[[UNSC Forward Unto Dawn|Forward Unto Dawn]]'', find themselves near [[Requiem]], the [[Forerunner]] [[Dyson sphere]] first seen in the [[Legendary]] ending of ''Halo 3''.<ref>'''[[Awakening]]'''</ref><ref name="h4panel"/><ref name="CVG">[http://www.computerandvideogames.com/328204/features/halo-4-why-the-trilogy-ends-on-next-gen/ '''Computer and Video Games''' - Halo 4: Why the trilogy ends on next-gen]</ref>  

The story of ''Halo 4'' will be heavily focused on mystery, exploration and discovery, and has been described as being grand in scope and scale. Forerunner elements will be featured extensively, including elements in Halo 4's online multiplayer. It has also been suggested that the game will reveal how humanity and the UNSC have adapted to the post-war world, particularly how they have co-opted Forerunner technology into their military devices and assets.<ref name="h4panel"/> The former subject species of the [[Covenant Empire]] return in the game, with the supposed Sangheili allies and their former Unggoy subordinates, turned enemies, have banded together and engage with John-117 in combat.<ref name="bulletin1">[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/03/08/The-Halo-Bulletin-30712.aspx '''Halo Official Site''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 3.07.12'']</ref><ref name="Game Informer May 2012"/> However, the Covenant are taking a backseat to an entirely new antagonist, the [[Promethean]]s,<ref name="press center">[http://press.xbox360.com/products/p51/halo-4?grp=Blockbuster+Games&event=5 '''Xbox.com''': ''Xbox Press Center - Halo 4'']</ref> which has been said to be a "threat beyond anything that Master Chief has faced before."<ref name="venture">[http://venturebeat.com/2012/03/05/11-things-learned-about-halo-4/ '''Venturebeat.com''': ''11 new things we’ve learned about Halo 4 (with video)'']</ref>

Beginning approximately on July 20th, 2557 <ref name="IGN 4/7/2012"/><ref name="Game Informer May 2012">'''Game Informer''': ''May 2012''</ref>, four years and seven months after the armistice ending the [[Human-Covenant War]], a prologue cinematic will educate new players to the game and refresh fans on the events leading up to the present day. Cortana, laying silent for years, notices that the ship's intruder alarms have activated and attempts to wake John-117 from [[Cryo chamber|cryo-sleep]]. Cortana notifies him that in his sleep, she rewrote the firmware of his MJOLNIR Mark VI armor, upgrading the HUD, armor capabilities, while giving a new overall appearance. With alarms ringing and the intruders spreading to multiple decks, John slips Cortana's chip back into his neural interface and upon opening a sealed hatch, unpressurized rooms rip him from the deck and send him into the vacuum. After climbing up an elevator shaft, suddenly, a [[Sangheili]] swordsman comes charging at the Spartan supersoldier. After a brief close quarters engagement with the soldier, he kicks him down the shaft to his death. John questions the AI construct on why his once-formidable allies have attacked them, to which she has no answer. After fighting the Sangheili and their "repatriated" [[Unggoy]] subordinates, John makes his way to the aft observation deck, viewing a large [[Covenant fleet]] surrounding the ''Forward Unto Dawn'' while multiple boarding crafts dock with the heavily damaged aft section of the frigate. Shortly after, John and Cortana make a crash-landing on the Forerunner Dyson sphere [[Requiem]], entering the sphere via an entrance in the superstructure.<ref name="Game Informer May 2012"/>

Unlike ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', ''Halo 4'' is designed to be part of a three-game arc from the beginning. In addition, 343 Industries is aiming for more complete connectivity among all of their future media than that of the original trilogy;<ref name="h4panel"/> the ''[[The Forerunner Saga|Forerunner Saga]]'' and ''[[Kilo-Five Trilogy]]'' novels,<ref>[http://halo.xbox.com/Content/assets/en-us/Podcast/343Sparkast_005.mp3 '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''343 Sparkcast 005'']</ref><ref name="bulletin1"/> and the ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'' [[Terminal/Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary|terminals]] have been stated as "definitely" having "resonant connections" to ''Halo 4'''s story.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNDQN7nwZlw&feature=related '''YouTube''': ''SDCC 2011: Halo Universe Panel Part 1'']</ref><ref name="h4panel"/> The third and final ''Forerunner Saga'' novel, with the working title of "''Silentium''", is expected to be released on January 13th, 2013. <ref name="Greg Bear Forum 532012">[http://www.gregbear.com/blog/display.cfm?id=6420 '''Greg Bear - Discussion Board''': ''Book'']</ref><ref name="Greg Bear Forum 542012">[http://www.gregbear.com/blog/display.cfm?id=6462 '''Greg Bear - Discussion Board''': ''PRIMORDIAL GRAVEMIND'']</ref> Frank O'Connor noted that ''Silentium'' will be released after ''Halo 4'' for "specific strategic reasons" likely referring to the connectivity of the game and the novel. <ref name="Bulletin 372012">[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/03/08/The-Halo-Bulletin-30712.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 3.07.12'']</ref> A live action series, ''[[Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn]]'', will provide a backstory for several characters set to appear in the game; this series will consist of five episodes totaling 75 minutes. The Halo 4 Collectors Edition will include a 90 minute extended cut of the series. <ref name="Variety 4302012">[http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118053273 '''Variety.com:''' ''Halo Web series to bow before next game'']</ref>

==Features==

{{Spoiler}}

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===Characters===

*[[Andrew Del Rio]]<ref name="E3 2012 demo"/>

*[[The Didact]]<ref name="E3 2012 demo"/>

***[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/CIO|MJOLNIR/CIO]] {{1st}} <ref>[http://www.amazon.com/Halo-4-Xbox-360/dp/B0050SYX8W '''Amazon.com''': ''CIO pre-order bonus]''</ref>

*[[Sangheili combat harness]]

**[[Zealot]] variant<ref name="McFarlane Series 1 Card">[http://www.xbox-skyer.com/content.php?r=2163-%E9%BA%A6%E5%85%8B%E6%B3%95%E5%85%B0%E7%8E%A9%E5%85%B7%E6%B3%84%E9%9C%B2-Halo-4-%E6%96%B0%E6%95%8C%E4%BA%BA%E8%B5%84%E6%96%99%EF%BC%9F&s=c1fabb22ff0a7f469acfaa2b75b71fd4 '''McFarlane Toys:''' ''Series 1 Figure Card'']</ref>

*[[Unggoy combat harness]]

*[[Battle of Kholo]] {{Mo}}

*[[Battle of Requiem]] {{1st}}

===Locations===

*[[Concord]] {{1st}}

**[[Longbow|Longbow Station]] {{1st}}

*[[Chi Ceti IV]] {{mo}}<ref name="youtube2">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LGdJ9hWC5M&feature=g-all-u '''YouTube''': ''IGN'']</ref>

*[[Sol System]]

**[[Earth]]

***[[Luna]] {{Mo}}<ref name="youtube2">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LGdJ9hWC5M&feature=g-all-u '''YouTube''': ''IGN'']</ref>

*[[Kholo]] {{Mo}}

**[[Adrift|CAA orbital mining facility]] {{1st}}

*[[Mars]]

**[[Gdynia]] {{C|First mentioned}} <ref name="youtube2">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LGdJ9hWC5M&feature=g-all-u '''YouTube''': ''IGN'']</ref>

*[[New Carthage]] {{First mentioned}} <ref name="youtube2">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LGdJ9hWC5M&feature=g-all-u '''YouTube''': ''IGN'']</ref>

*[[Requiem]] <ref>[http://www.gametrailers.com/video/e3-2011-halo-4/714846 '''GameTrailers''': ''E3 2011: Halo Returns Interview (Stream) HD'']</ref><ref name="gtinterview"/><ref name="Game Informer May 2012"/>

**[[Haven|Requiem solar energy facility]] {{1st}}

===Organizations===

*[[Acheron Security]] {{1st}} <ref name="GI 5202012">[http://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2012/05/02/the-arsenal-of-halo-4.aspx '''Game Informer.com:''' ''The Arsenal of Halo 4'']</ref>

**[[Promethean]]<ref name="Waypoint Weapons"/>

*[[Hannibal Weapon Systems]] {{1st}}

*[[Imbrium Machine Complex]] {{1st}} <ref name="youtube2">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LGdJ9hWC5M&feature=g-all-u '''YouTube''': ''IGN'']</ref>

*[[Iruiru Armory]]

*[[Lethbridge Industrial]] {{1st}} <ref name="Official Site"/>

*[[Lodam Armory]] {{1st}}

*[[Merchants of Qikost]]

*[[Naphtali Contractor Corporation]] {{1st}} <ref name="youtube2">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LGdJ9hWC5M&feature=g-all-u '''YouTube''': ''IGN'']</ref>

*[[Sangheilian armed forces]]<ref name="IGN 4/7/2012"/>

*[[United Earth Government]]

***[[Spartan]]

****[[SPARTAN-IV Program]] {{1st}}

*****[[Fireteam Crimson]]<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nn89_AXCRUY ''Halo 4 Spartan Ops Gameplay'']</ref><ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PsNWkjP65Cg&feature=g-all-u ''Halo 4 Infinity Gameplay'']</ref>{{1st}}

*****[[Majestic Squad]] {{1st}} <ref name="joystiq">[http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/halo-4s-infinity-multiplayer-to-introduce-spartan-ops-war-ga/ '''Joysiq''': ''Halo 4's 'Infinity' multiplayer to introduce Spartan Ops, War Games'']</ref>

***[[UNSC Marine Corps]]<ref name="sp011"/>

****[[UNSC Special Forces|Naval Special Warfare Command]]

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

*[[Covenant Empire|Unidentified Covenant organization]] <ref name="bulletin1"/><ref name="sp011">[http://halo.xbox.com/Content/assets/en-us/Podcast/343Sparkast_011.mp3 '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''343 Sparkcast 011'']</ref>

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===Species===

*[[Human]]

*[[Forerunner]]<ref name="kotaku">[http://kotaku.com/5900905/cortana-is-dying-multiplayer-sounds-very-interesting-and-other-pieces-of-halo-4-news '''Kotaku''': ''Cortana is Dying, Multiplayer Sounds Very Interesting, and Other Pieces of Halo 4 News'']</ref>

*[[Kig-Yar]]<ref name="Game Informer May 2012"/>

*[[Sangheili]]<ref name="IGN 4/7/2012"/>

*[[Unggoy]]<ref name="Game Informer May 2012"/>

===Vehicles===

*[[Covenant boarding craft|Boarding craft]]<ref name="Game Informer May 2012"/>

*[[CCS-class battlecruiser|''CCS''-class battlecruiser]]<ref name="HBO Cover Art 5142012">[http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=1138791 '''halo.bungie.org:''' ''Halo 4 Puzzle Email?'']</ref>

**{{UNSCShip|Forward Unto Dawn}}<ref group="note">The ''Forward Unto Dawn'', like many things featured in ''Halo 4'', has been visually upgraded since its last appearance in ''Halo 3''. Currently, no canonical reason has been given for its upgrade, though 343 Industries designers have noted that many notable and iconic elements will be given a "facelift" for ''Halo 4.''</ref>

*[[Cyclops Mark II]] {{1st}} <ref name="metacafe">[http://www.metacafe.com/watch/8185354/frank_oconnor_halo_4_interview_at_microsoft_spring_shocase_2012/ '''MetaCafe''': ''Frank O'Connor Halo 4 Interview at Microsoft Spring Shocase 2012'']</ref>

*[[M12 Force Application Vehicle]]

*[[M274 Ultra-Light All-Terrain Vehicle]]<ref name="E3 2012 demo">'''E3 2012:''' ''Halo 4 campaign demo''</ref>

*[[M808 Main Battle Tank]] <ref name="Press Screenshot 642012">[[:File:H4-E3-Campaign-10.jpg|''E3 2012 campaign screenshot'']]</ref>

*[[Type-26 Assault Gun Carriage]]<ref name="Press Screenshot 642012"/>

*[[Type-26 Ground Support Aircraft]]<ref name="OXM UK 4/2012">'''Official Xbox Magazine UK:''' ''May 2012''</ref>

*[[Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle]]

*[[Type-52 Troop Carrier]]<ref>[http://youtu.be/F0M7FJ9Qta8 '''E3 2012 demo''' ''seen during cinematic'']</ref>

*[[UH-144 Falcon]]<ref name="Press Screenshot 642012"/>

*{{UNSCShip|Infinity}} {{1st}} <ref name="IGN 4/7/2012">[http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/122/1222537p1.html?utm_campaign=ign+main+twitter&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social '''IGN.com''': ''Spartan Ops and Infinity Change Halo 4 Multiplayer'']</ref>

**UNSC dropship {{1st}} <ref name="Conan 4172012"/>

**UNSC heavy ground vehicle {{1st}} <ref name="E3 2012 demo"/>

===Weapons===

*[[ARC-920]]<ref name="GI 5202012"/> {{1st}}

*[[BR85 Heavy Barrel Service Rifle]]<ref>[[:File:H4 chief edit.png|John-117 holding the rifle]]</ref><ref>[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/03/15/The-Halo-Bulletin-31412.aspx '''Halo Official Site''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 3.07.12'']</ref><ref name="GI 5202012"/> {{1st}}

*[[Combat knife]] <ref>[[:File:Halo4assassination.jpg|SPARTAN-IV killing with knife]]</ref>

*[[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle]]<ref name="Waypoint Weapons"/>

*[[M6H Personal Defense Weapon System]]<ref name="Waypoint Weapons">[http://halo.xbox.com/halo4#!an-epic-universe/ordnance-armor/cbbca9b3-5108-41aa-aa21-9b523de68266 '''Halo Waypoint:''' ''Ordnance + Armor'']</ref> {{1st}}  

*[[M9 High-Explosive Dual-Purpose grenade]]<ref name="RVB STD"/>

*[[M41 Surface-to-Surface Rocket Medium Anti-Vehicle/Assault Weapon]] <ref name="Waypoint Weapons"/>

*[[M45 Tactical Shotgun]]<ref name="IGN 4/7/2012"/><ref name="RVB STD">[http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/Universe/detail/rvb-save-the-date/63bab1e9-54dc-4b04-be6e-b6dcfcb4ad24 '''Halo Waypoint:''' ''Red vs. Blue: Save the Date'']</ref> <ref group="note" name="rvb">The inclusion of the M45 TS from ''[[Halo: Reach]]'' may imply that this weapon model is a simple placeholder for the final shipping product as the ''Red vs. Blue'' announcement video was made some time prior to the game's release. As well, all returning weapons as of the release date announcement have received a cosmetic upgrade.</ref>

*[[M46 Light Anti-Aircraft Gun]]<ref name="Waypoint Weapons"/> {{1st}}

*[[M247H Heavy Machine Gun]]<ref name="B-roll MP 642012">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frum8U3cvYg '''Halo Waypoint:''' ''Halo 4 Multiplayer B-Roll'']</ref>

*[[M395 Designated Marksman Rifle]]<ref name="sp011"/><ref>[http://halo.xbox.com/Forums/yaf_postst69780p2_March-343-Sparkast-up.aspx '''Halo Waypoint Forums''': ''March 343 Sparkcast up'' ('''Jay S094''': ''"They didn't say that the DMR was in the game."'' '''Total Sellout''': ''"Yes we did."'')]</ref> <ref name="GI 5202012"/> {{1st}}

*[[M363 Remote Projectile Detonator]] {{1st}} <ref name="Waypoint Weapons"/>

*[[MA5D Individual Combat Weapon System]]<ref name="GI 5202012"/> {{1st}}

*[[Sniper Rifle System 99-Series 5 Anti-Matériel]]<ref name="IGN 4/7/2012"/><ref name="GI 5202012"/> {{1st}}

*[[Type-1 Antipersonnel grenade]]<ref>[[:File:Plasmaexplosion.jpg|Plasma grenade]]</ref><ref name="Game Informer May 2012"/><ref name="E3 2012 demo"/>

*[[Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword]]<ref name="Game Informer May 2012"/>

*[[Type-25 Directed Energy Pistol]]<ref name="IGN 4/7/2012"/>

*[[Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher]]<ref name="Waypoint Weapons"/>

*[[Type-51 Carbine]]<ref name="IGN 4/7/2012"/>

*[[Type-55 Directed Energy Rifle/Advanced]]<ref name="Waypoint Weapons"/> {{1st}}  

*[[Z-180 Close Combat Rifle]]<ref name="Waypoint Weapons"/> {{1st}}  

*Unidentified/undesignated weapons

**Assault carbine {{1st}} <ref name="IGN 4/7/2012"/>

**[[Lightrifle]] {{1st}}<ref name="Waypoint Weapons"/><ref name="Guardian 632012"/>

**Promethean long-barreled weapon {{1st}} <ref group="note" name="Unidentified Promethean weapons">Two unidentified weapons carried by Promethean Knights have been discovered. One, a [[:File:Promethean weapon (long).png|long-barreled weapon]], reminicient of the human's ARC-920 railgun and the other, a [[:File:Promethean weapon (medium).png|medium-barreled weapon]], similar in shape and design to the Lightrifle.</ref>

**Promethean medium-barreled weapon {{1st}} <ref group="note" name="Unidentified Promethean weapons"/>

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{{Spoiler/end}}

[[File:H4 chief.png|thumb|Master Chief in ''Halo 4''.]]

''Halo 4'' is being developed for the Xbox 360 console.<ref name="Xbox 360"/> The game's creative team, which comprises nearly 200 individuals who have been developing the game for nearly three years,<ref name="GTTV 612012">[http://www.gametrailers.com/video/e3-2012-e3-2012/730801 '''GameTrailers.com:''' ''E3 2012: Halo 4 Xbox Evolved Promo'']</ref> is led by creative director [[Josh Holmes]].<ref name="h4panel"/> The game will continue the ''Halo'' series' tradition of inspiring wonder in the player while providing engaging, visceral gameplay. The game will utilize much of the "sandbox" that has been featured across all six prior ''Halo'' games and other media, in addition to introducing new characters, weapons, vehicles, and other elements.<ref name="h4panel"/> The game's "sandbox" and overall style are meant to be evocative of ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' moreso than of later installments.<ref name="CVG"/> [[Dual wielding]] will not be featured in the game.<ref name="GI podcast">[http://media1.gameinformer.com/media/audio/theshow/halo4/halo4special.mp3 '''Game Informer:''' ''Halo 4 Special Podcast'']</ref> [[Forge]], the multiplayer map editing feature first included in ''Halo 3'', is confirmed to be in-development and will be returning for ''Halo 4''. <ref name="GI podcast"/>

The narrative design team of ''Halo 4'' is headed by Armando Troisi, who previously worked on [[Wikipedia:Mass Effect|''Mass Effect'']] and its [[Wikipedia:Mass Effect 2|sequel]], along with an in-house team of writers. The original draft of the ''Halo 4'' script was written by Chris Schlerf, who has also had major influence on the script since then. Brian Reed, who wrote the 2010-2012 graphic novel adaptation ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]'', is also part of the writing team and has made significant contributions on the story.<ref>[http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=1137839 '''halo.bungie.org''': ''Re: Who's the writer for Halo 4?'']</ref>

The art director for ''Halo 4'' is Kenneth Scott. He described the visual style of ''Halo 4'' as being more ingrained in the expanded universe fiction, and more "mature" than before. With the game's increased focus on the Forerunners, the artists have invested heavily on the look and feel of Forerunner technology. It has also been stated that there will be more diversity to Forerunner structures, including fully active Forerunner technology as opposed to the mostly inert and abandoned structures seen in the earlier games.<ref name="h4panel"/>

John-117's experience and the player's experience are meant to be intertwined, with the Master Chief essentially serving as the player's avatar within the ''Halo'' universe. John's character will also be explored and developed in more depth than in the prior games, and the relationship between John and Cortana will be heavily featured and greatly expanded.<ref name="h4panel"/>

With the increased focus on the character of Master Chief, the ''Halo 4'' art team has redesigned his MJOLNIR armor from the ground up. The first look into the redefined armor, which differs considerably from the suit seen in ''Halo 3'', was seen in the announcement trailer, generating a considerable amount of confusion and speculation among fans. 343 Industries later stated that the design seen in the trailer was not the final version.<ref name="h4panel"/> The final iteration was later seen alongside the first ''Halo 4'' gameplay reveal following Microsoft Spring Showcase 2012. It has been stated that the changes in the design are mostly cosmetic and were made with the intent of giving the suit a more functional look in order to suit the new art direction of the game.<ref name="first look">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6UL63Zo-uo&feature=player_embedded '''YouTube''': ''Making Halo 4: First Look'']</ref> In a fictional context, the difference in the suit's appearance is explained by an extensive overhaul performed by Cortana while John was in cryo-sleep.<ref name="Game Informer May 2012"/><ref name="Official Site"/>

[[Wikipedia:Motion capture|Motion capture]], first implemented in the series on ''Halo: Reach'', was used during the production of ''Halo 4''. <ref name="Bulletin 592012">[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/05/09/The-Halo-Bulletin-5912.aspx '''Halo Waypoint:''' ''The Halo Bulletin: 5.9.2012'']</ref> Recording began prior to the release of the ''Making Halo 4: First Look'' video in [[Wikipedia:Los Angeles|Los Angeles]], [[Wikipedia:California|California]], with material for the character Cortana and a man playing an unidentified character filmed; recordings have been done as recently as the week of April 29th, 2012. <ref name="Bulletin 592012"/> Bruce Thomas and MacKenzie Mason would later be confirmed as the "cinematic performance capture actors" for John-117 and Cortana, respectively. <ref name="Bulletin 692012"/>

[[Sotaro Tojima]], best known for his work on [[Wikipedia:Konami|Konami's]] ''[[Wikipedia:Castlevania: Circle of the Moon|Castlevania: Circle of the Moon]]'' and ''[[Wikipedia: Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots|Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots]]'', serves as ''Halo 4'''s audio director.<ref name="h4panel"/> The team has performed many live audio recording sessions, several of which occurred in [[Wikipedia:Tasmania|Tasmania, Australia]]. Some of these recording sessions have taken place in generally inhospitable environments, such as underwater, in fire, and in ice, through the use of specially designed microphones;<ref name="h4panel"/> other recording sessions have utilized "home made" explosives.<ref name="Audio">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Lci6hIWxZss'''Halo Waypoint''': ''Halo 4 Field Audio Recording'']</ref> Tojima intends for the game's audio to be clearly grounded in the ''Halo'' universe, though to also have a more realistic quality than in past titles.<ref name="h4panel"/> A video was released on February 23rd depicting 343i recording weapon and explosion audio alongside the [[Wikipedia:United States Army Special Forces|U.S. Army Special Forces]]. Weapons such as the [[Wikipedia:M4 carbine|M4 carbine]], [[Wikipedia:FN SCAR|Mk.17 SCAR-H]], [[Wikipedia:M240 machine gun|M240 general purpose machine gun]], [[Wikipedia:Barrett M82|M107 sniper rifle]], [[Wikipedia:M2 Browning|M2 heavy machine gun]], and the [[Wikipedia:M72 LAW|M72 rocket launcher]] were used in the recording.<ref name="Audio"/>

Five voice actors have so far been announced for the game. [[Jen Taylor]], voicing the A.I. Cortana, and [[Jeff Steitzer]], the multiplayer and firefight [[The Announcer|Announcer]], have confirmed on Facebook that they will again be reprising their roles for ''Halo 4''. <ref>[http://halo.bungie.org/images/taylors_back.png '''Facebook.com''' and '''Halo.Bungie.org''': ''Jeff Steitzer announcement on voice acting'']</ref> [[Steve Downes]], the iconic voice of John-117, was confirmed to voice the game's protagonist in the June 9th Halo Bulletin. <ref name="Bulletin 692012">[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/06/09/The-Halo-Bulletin-6912.aspx '''Halo Waypoint:''' ''The Halo Bulletin 6.9.2012'']</ref> On the April 17th, 2012 episode of the [[Wikipedia:TBS (TV channel)|TBS]] late night comedy show [[Wikipedia:Conan (TV series)|''Conan'']], hosts [[Wikipedia:Conan O'Brien|Conan O'Brien]] and [[Wikipedia:Andy Richter|Andy Richter]] announced that they'll be voicing Navy deckhands lifting crates aboard the advanced warship ''Infinity'' towards the end of the story. <ref name="Conan 4172012">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=GflJB-aM0wI '''Conan''': ''Episode 245 - April 17th, 2012'']</ref>

On April 11, 2012, the composer for ''Halo 4'' was announced to be [[Neil Davidge]].<ref>[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/04/11/Neil-Davidge.aspx '''Halo Official Site''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 4.11.12'']</ref> Davidge first started in his role as the future composer in late 2010, eventually having his first meeting with 343i laying out his ideas for the music of the game. <ref name="Edge 582012">[http://www.edge-online.com/features/scoring-halo-4?page=2 '''Edge Magazine:''' ''Scoring Halo 4'']</ref> After the meeting, Davidge began writing 20 to 30 pieces that would be the base of the ''Halo 4'' score, which he officially began working on in August of 2011. Davidge has since stated that over four hours and an estimated 300 pieces had been written as of May 8, 2012. <ref name="Edge 582012"/> Composing ''Halo 4'' is noted as being split into four distinct "tiers," each consisting of central themes for a handful of missions. Many of the key compositions were recorded and completed in January 2012 ahead of 343i's completion deadline. <ref name="Edge 582012"/> Though still grounded in the ''Halo'' universe, the score for ''Halo 4'' will be taking a new direction from [[Martin O'Donnell]]'s composition in previous ''Halo'' titles. <ref name="bulletin1"/>

[[File:Halo 4 Multiplayer.jpg|thumb|A first-person view of ''Halo 4'''s multiplayer.]]

The competitive and cooperative multiplayer modes of ''Halo 4'' are grouped together into a mode known as ''Infinity'', which is tied to the ''Halo'' series fiction and runs parallel to the campaign story. In ''Infinity'', players take control of [[SPARTAN-IV Program|SPARTAN-IV supersoldiers]] serving aboard the advanced warship, UNSC ''Infinity''.<ref name="mp1">[http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/gaming/interviews/a369211/halo-4-interview-343-industries-on-multiplayer-new-forms-of-story.html '''Digitalspy.co.uk''': ''Halo 4 interview: 343 Industries on multiplayer, new forms of story'']</ref> Prior to the beginning of development on ''Halo 4'', 343i General Manager [[Bonnie Ross]] and Frank O'Connor set the framework of the new studio's mission which entailed that all pieces of existing and future fiction from the games, novels, comics, etc. would be interwoven and share content from each other. <ref name="Guardian 632012">[http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/gamesblog/2012/jun/04/e3-2012-halo-4-interview '''The Guardian:''' ''E3 2012: Frank O'Connor on Halo 4 – Spartan Ops could run for years'']</ref> Among this would be the multiplayer component for ''Halo 4'', which would later include the introduction of ''Spartan Ops''; "'' Wrapping the whole thing together allowed us to make sure that all the fiction in all of those pieces actually mattered – in this case, it connects directly to your career as well as the narrative experience.''" <ref name="Guardian 632012"/>

===War Games===

Competitive multiplayer, known as "''War Games''," pits players against one another in adversarial combat training in simulated environments in the advanced combat deck of the ''Infinity''.<ref name="first look"/><ref name="mp1"/> However, due to the emphasis on the SPARTAN-IV commandos, players will not have the option to use [[Sangheili]] soldiers for their multiplayer character.<ref name="IGN 4/7/2012"/>

343 Industries is aiming to provide a "brand new experience" in ''Halo 4'' multiplayer. This includes a reworking of the series' traditional balance system. For example, the class progression system will be more extensive; unlike in the prior games where multiplayer [[armor permutations]] were simply aesthetic, in ''Halo 4'' custom armor will have an effect on gameplay.<ref name="venture"/><ref name="cod">[http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/gamesblog/2012/mar/05/halo-4-multiplayer-details-revealed '''Guardian.co.uk''': ''Halo 4 multiplayer revealed: Master Chief meets Call of Duty?'']</ref> Players will also be able to customize their [[loadout]]s.<ref>[http://www.gamefront.com/halo-4-demo-report/2/ '''Gamefront.com''': ''Halo 4 Demo Report'']</ref> It has also been stated that multiplayer gameplay will be "much more fast-paced, more intense and visceral" than in the prior games.<ref name="cod"/> Weapon pickups on maps will also be marked on the player's [[heads-up display]].<ref name="venture"/>

 

''Spartan Ops'' is a secondary campaign that replaces the [[Firefight]] mode featured in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'' and ''[[Halo: Reach]]''.<ref name="IGN 4/7/2012"/> Much like traditional campaign cooperative play, ''Spartan Ops'' will allow up to four players to participate in weekly objective-based episodic missions;<ref name="IGN 4/7/2012"/> <ref name="GI podcast"/> Missions will intertwine directly with events in the main ''Halo 4'' campaign, expanding on the story of the UNSC ''Infinity'' and her crew, who will interact with John-117 during the series;<ref name="GI podcast"/> this new mode is being likened to a second full-scale campaign for the game. <ref name="Guardian 632012"/> Compared to a season of a television program, each "episode" of ''Spartan Ops'' will feature cinematics and five playable missions complete with new events, characters, locations, and gameplay challenges. <ref name="Game Informer May 2012"/> 343 Industries  will be supporting additional ''Spartan Ops'' missions for months after launch of the game and unlike ''Reach'' challenges, players will have the opportunity to play from the beginning of the episodic campaign regardless of when they started playing. The first "season" will be included with the price of the game, though 343i has not ruled out charging players for additional ''Spartan Ops'' seasons.<ref name="NYDN 4302012">[http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/system-update-halo-4-preview-glimpse-return-master-chief-article-1.1068510?pgno=1 '''NYDailyNews.com:''' ''SYSTEM UPDATE: Halo 4 preview, with our first glimpse into return of Master Chief'']</ref> Frank O'Connor has stated that it will "bridge the gap" between the events of ''Halo 4'' and the future release of its sequel ''Halo 5''.<ref name="NYDN 4302012"/>

The development of ''Spartan Ops'' came to fruition under the ideals of persistent, fresh replayability and small additions to the fiction surrounding the ''Reclaimer Trilogy'' and ancillary content. <ref name="Guardian 632012"/> Each episode of the series, gameplay-wise, is set up with meaning to enhance the significance of the events you are playing through, and as such, simplistic single-objective missions will not be a focus of ''Spartan Ops''. Frank O'Connor in an interview with The Guardian states that the stories and events have been loosely laid out for "a few years"<ref name="Guardian 632012"/>; the success or failure of ''Spartan Ops'' may lead to a continuation of the series past 2012-2013 with a "''known beginning, a middle, and an end.''" <ref name="Guardian 632012"/> The first season of ''Spartan Ops'' as of June 2012 has been noted as being "''very rigid''" with the direction of the story having already been mapped out from beginning to end.

===Multiplayer maps===

Unlike ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', where the original multiplayer maps were shared in the campaign as gameplay spaces, all multiplayer maps in ''Halo 4'' will be purpose-built for multiplayer alone much like in the first three ''Halo'' games.<ref name="cod"/> Frank O'Connor has stated that the names of the two known multiplayer maps are only placeholders and will be revealed at a later date. <ref>[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/05/02/The-Halo-Bulletin-5212.aspx '''Halo Waypoint:''' ''The Halo Bulletin 5.2.12'']</ref> When asked whether [[Certain Affinity]] will be assisting with multiplayer maps for ''Halo 4'', O'Connor stated that he values their service and he would hire them to assist with the production multiplayer maps for ''Halo 4''.<ref name="Certain Affinity">[http://www.oxmonline.com/343-industries-halo-4-will-re-inject-some-new-life-halo-multiplayer '''Official Xbox Magazine online.com''' ''343 Industries: Halo 4 will "re-inject some new life" into Halo multiplayer]''</ref>

{{Halo 4 Versions}}

The North American (ESRB) and European (PEGI) cover art for ''Halo 4'', [[:File:Halo 4 cover art ESRB (without Xbox 360 logos).jpg|seen here]], was unveiled on May 14th, 2012 through a series of 32 "puzzle pieces" given to various community members by 343 Industries.<ref name="NeoGAF 5142012">[http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=37869368&postcount=607 '''NeoGAF:''' ''Halo |OT4| Trust's a Tough Thing to Come by These Days'']</ref><ref name="HBO Cover Art 5142012">[http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=1138791 '''halo.bungie.org:''' ''Halo 4 Puzzle Email?'']</ref> It depicts John-117 kneeling in his upgraded MJOLNIR armor with an MA5D assault rifle at the entrance to the Requiem Dyson sphere. To his sides, the crashing remains of the UNSC ''Forward Unto Dawn'', which is visually upgraded from its previous incarnation in ''Halo 3'', and a [[CCS-class battlecruiser]] with other debris surround him.<ref name="HBO Cover Art 5142012"/>

Announced on May 16th, 2012, 343 Industries revealed a collector's edition for ''Halo 4''.<ref name="Bulletin 51612">[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/05/16/The-Halo-Bulletin-51612.aspx '''Halo Waypoint:''' ''The Halo Bulletin 5.16.12'']</ref> The ''[[Halo 4 Limited Edition]]'' has been noted as "maximizing your multiplayer experience," which in-turn will expand on the fiction of the ''Halo'' universe like many aspects of the game as a whole.<ref name="Bulletin 51612"/> The Limited Edition is presented in a large, minimalistic grey case that is adorned with an updated United Nations Space Command insignia; the game itself will be included in a smaller silver tin case that features similar artwork to the larger case and is embossed with futuristic artwork. It is currently available for pre-order alongside the standard edition and will be available for purchase worldwide on November 6th, 2012 starting at $99.99 ([[Wikipedia:United States Dollar|USD]]).<ref name="Bulletin 51612"/> 343 Industries has confirmed that there will not be a "''Legendary Edition''" for ''Halo 4'', citing that they didn't want consumers to have to choose what version-specific ancillary items they'd receive.<ref name="Bulletin 51612"/>

Many pre-order bonuses for ''Halo 4'' were revealed on May 25th, 2012. This is the first time that Microsoft Studios has introduced retailer-specific bonus items for a ''Halo'' game; preorder bonuses were offered for ''ODST'', ''Reach'', and ''Combat Evolved Anniversary'', however, not on the scale of ''Halo 4''. Helmet and armor skins and emblems are completely customizable for use in multiplayer to match the style of the individual player. Each bonus item and their respective retailer are listed below by availability:

''[[Awakening: The Art of Halo 4]]'' is a hardcover art book first announced on May 8th, 2012. The book will be published by [[Wikipedia:Titan Books|Titan Books]] with a release date of November 2nd, 2012. <ref name="Waypoint Book 582012">[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/05/08/Titan-Books-Signs-Up-Lavish-Art-Book-of-Halo-4.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Titan Books Signs Up Lavish Art Book for Halo 4'']</ref> This fourth retail art collection from the ''Halo'' universe will include 192 pages of colored illustration used during production to create the vision of ''Halo 4'' and will include commentary by [[343 Industries]] artists and developers.<ref name="Waypoint Book 582012"/>

Five novels released from January 2011 to January 2013, though not specifically game merchandise, are intertwined with the story and expanded universe introduced in ''Halo 4''. Set thousands of years in the past, the ''Forerunner Saga'' and its three novels ''Cryptum'' (Jan. 4th, 2011), ''Primordium'' (Jan. 3rd, 2012), and the upcoming ''Silentium'' (Jan. 13th, 2013 <ref name="Greg Bear Forum 542012"/>) deal with the events leading up to and during the [[Forerunner-Flood war]] up to the "present day." The ''Kilo-Five Trilogy'', consisting of ''Glasslands'' (Oct. 25th, 2011), ''The Thursday War'' (Oct. 2nd, 2012), and an unannounced third novel, chronicles the months following the end of ''Halo 3'' and will bridge the gap between the original Bungie trilogy and the ''Reclaimer Trilogy''.

Released during Microsoft's E3 2011 media briefing, the trailer depicts Cortana awakening John-117 from [[Cryo chamber|cryo sleep]] on the wreckage of ''[[Forward Unto Dawn]]'', followed by John securing Cortana's [[Data crystal chip|storage chip]] and rushing through the wreckage to witness the ship being pulled into an enormous opening on the surface of [[Requiem]].

====Concept Art Glimpse====

A video presenting several pieces of concept art was initially presented at ''Halo Fest'' and was subsequently released on ''[[Halo Waypoint]]''.<ref name="concept glimpse">[http://youtu.be/vAKmu2yn3Fk '''YouTube''': ''Halo Fest: Halo 4 Concept Art Glimpse'']</ref> The trailer presents concept art of an [[Earth]]-like alien world, several location drafts which feature buildings and ships that follow the [[Forerunner]]s' style of architecture and design, concepts of the ''Forward Unto Dawn''<nowiki>'s</nowiki> wreckage, and some concepts of the unidentified planet. Two of these images were repurposed as the cover art for two of the ''Forerunner Saga'' novels, ''Cryptum'' and ''Primordium''. <ref name="h4panel"/>

{{Main|Making Halo 4: First Look}}

This video revealed the first in-game footage of ''Halo 4'' along with various gameplay elements. The video shows the most recent design of John-117's MJOLNIR armor and introduces the [[BR85 Heavy Barrel Service Rifle]]. The video goes on to show various clips of multiplayer with new elements revealed. Two multiplayer maps are revealed along with the first visual appearance of the SPARTAN-IVs. The video is presented and narrated by various 343 Industries employees.

This video reveals the music composer of ''Halo 4'', [[Neil Davidge]], and focuses primarily on the score's production process. It is stated that the musical score of ''Halo 4'' will depart significantly from [[Martin O'Donnell]]'s established works.

E3 in 2012 showcased a campaign demo during the Media Briefing, and a live-action trailer.

The live-action trailer depicts a speech dedicated to the UNSC ''Infinity'' before it left Earth, and the ship as it is entered Requiem.

The campaign demo showcased new enemies, weapons, vehicles, and small part of the storyline. The campaign demo drew parts from the live-action trailer, gameplay, and some cutscenes.

[[File:H4 FUD teaser 4-30-2012.jpg|200px|thumb|right|John-117 in ''Forward Unto Dawn''.]]

Announced on April 30th, 2012, ''Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn'' is a five-episode live-action series with a total runtime of 75 minutes, making it one of the longest marketing programs for any game in history.<ref name="Variety 4302012"/> ''Forward Unto Dawn'' will chronicle the life of a UNSC officer from his/her days as a cadet all the way to [[2557]] aboard the {{UNSCship|Infinity}}. [[John-117]] is noted as being an inspiration to the protagonist and will appear in the film in an as-yet unknown fashion. 343i's business director, Matt McCloskey, stated that ''Forward Unto Dawn'' will allow the franchise to "make ''Halo'' accessible for people who haven't played the games." Both McCloskey and [[Frank O'Connor]] noted that the series will flesh out the fiction of the universe, particularly ''Halo 4'''s. Viewers will be given background information on the various events set prior to the upcoming game and the characters set to appear in it, as well as being introduced to new elements and expanding on old ones.  

''Forward Unto Dawn'' will be released prior to the worldwide launch of ''Halo 4'' in October, <ref name="Bulletin 5252012">[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/05/25/The-Halo-Bulletin-52512.aspx '''Halo Waypoint:''' ''The Halo Bulletin 5.25.2012'']</ref> first as a short weekly webseries exclusively on ''[[Halo Waypoint]]'' and [[Wikipedia:Machinima.com|Machinima.com]] and later in its full 75-minute form on other devices.<ref name="Variety 4302012"/> A 90-minute extended edition is included with the limited edition for ''Halo 4''. <ref name="Bulletin 51612"/> The cast and crew for the film will be revealed at [[Wikipedia:San Diego Comic-Con International|San Diego Comic-Con 2012]] in July.

When recording dialogue as [[Avery Junior Johnson|Sergeant Major Avery Johnson]] for ''[[Halo 2]]'', [[David Scully]] humorously said, "In ''Halo 4'', I get a woman!"<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/Media.aspx?mid=13890&age_verify=0 '''Bungie.net''': ''Media Player - Halo 2 Audio Outtakes'']</ref>

File:Halo 4 cover art ESRB (without Xbox 360 logos).jpg|North American/ESRB cover art without Xbox 360 branding. Released on 5/14/2012.

File:DawnInterior.jpg|The [[HUD]] utilized in ''Halo 4'''s single-player.

File:H4-FUD John Minor battle.jpg|John-117 and a Sangheili Minor in a close quarters fight.

File:H4-E3-Campaign-4.jpg|The Chief watches as the {{UNSCship|Infinity}} crash-lands.

===Multiplayer screenshots===

File:WarhouseCyclopsOverhead.jpg|A [[Cyclops Mark II]] under construction in a UNSC factory in the multiplayer map ''[[Adrift]]''.

===Spartan Ops screenshots===

File:H4-SpartanOps-5.jpg|

File:H4-SpartanOps-6.jpg|

File:H4-SpartanOps-7.jpg|

File:Halo4conceptart1.jpg|A general view of a planet or megastructure, with conspicuous artificial features visible on its surface.

File:Halo4conceptart2.jpg|The wreckage of the ''Forward Unto Dawn'' entering an iris-like opening on Requiem.

File:Halo4conceptart14.jpg|UNSC ships entering the structure through what appears to be the same or similar opening.

File:GravityWellConcept.JPG|Concept art of a Forerunner gravity field generator.

File:Halo4conceptart9.jpg|A valley with massive Forerunner towers suspended in the air.

File:Wraparoundbetter.jpg|Concept art of the Forerunner skyscrapers that serves as the setting for ''[[Haven]]''.

File:WarhouseLandingPad.jpg|Concept art of a [[Pelican]] landing at the orbital manufacturing facility that serves as the setting for [[Adrift]].

File:UNSC Infinity.jpg|Concept art of the prototype warship {{UNSCShip|Infinity}}.

File:H4- Ancient threat.jpg|A compilation of screen captures from the end of the concept art trailer, depicting what appears to be a Promethean Knight.<ref name="concept glimpse"/>

File:Cov_229_l.jpg|Concept art of Master Chief and Cortana.

File:DawnCryoConcept.jpg|Concept art of the ''Forward Unto Dawn'''s cryo bay.

File:chief_ARC.jpg|Concept art of Master Chief with the [[ARC-920]].

File:MultiplayerConcept1.jpg|Concept art of a [[Forerunner]] artifact in a UNSC facility.

{{reflist|2}}

{{Halo Games}}

[[Category:Halo 4|*]]