Editing Halo Wars

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<center>''Were you looking for [[Halo Wars: Genesis]], the [[Halo Wars: Limited Edition]] or the [[Halo Wars: Official Strategy Guide]]?''</center>

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{{Game Info Box

|name='''''Halo Wars'''''

|image=Halo Wars - Cover Art - Final.jpg

|imageSize=260

|Developer=[[Ensemble Studios]]/[[Robot Entertainment]]

|Publisher= [[wikipedia:Microsoft Game Studios|Microsoft Game Studios]]

|Genre= [[Real-time Strategy]]                

|US Date Released= March 3rd, 2009 <ref>http://kotaku.com/5126557/ces-09-whoops-halo-wars-release-date-still-march-3</ref>

|UK Date Released= February 27th, 2009<ref>http://www.amazon.co.uk/Microsoft-Halo-Wars-Xbox-360/dp/B000NG5AEW/ref=sr_1_24?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1228803251&sr=8-24</ref>

|Game modes=[[Campaign Mode]], [[Multiplayer|Multi-player]], [[Co-op|Co-op Campaign Mode]], Skirmish.

|ESRB=Mature (M)(Or 16+) (In UK only) Teen (T) for Mild Blood, Mild Language, and Violence

|Platform=[[Xbox 360]]  

|Website=http://www.halowars.com/

'''''Halo Wars''''' is a real-time strategy game in the ''Halo'' Universe. It begins in the year [[2531]], during the Covenant eradication of the Outer Colonies in the [[Human-Covenant War]]. The game was developed by [[Ensemble Studios]], and is an Xbox 360 exclusive, like ''[[Halo 3]]''. Unlike other Halo games, ''Halo Wars'' is rated "T" for Teen, downgraded from "M" for Mature given to previous installments. Downloadable content and support is currently being developed by [[Robot Entertainment]], a studio founded by ex-[[Ensemble Studios]] employees after its closing.<ref>[http://www.robotentertainment.com/PressRelease.htm</ref>

[[Image:HWSPARTAN.PNG|thumb|right|A SPARTAN from [[SPARTAN Group Omega]] sporting an early concept design of the Mark IV armor(speculated) in the ''Halo Wars'' announcement trailer.]]

[[Image:HwaIMG-9055-control.jpg|thumb|right|The control scheme in ''Halo Wars''.]]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

===Plot===

[[Image:Harvest Plasma Glassed.jpg|thumb|left|Harvest just after the UNSC ''Spirit of Fire'' arrived in the system.]]

The game's story is told through in-game cut scenes and in-game moments, as with the other ''Halo'' games. The game is set in [[2531]]<ref>http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=168577</ref>, it focuses around the [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marine]] forces of the [[UNSC Spirit of Fire|UNSC ''Spirit of Fire'']] as they engage [[Covenant]] ground forces after the discovery of an ancient artifact during a journey to the partially glassed  [[Harvest]].

The story begins with the [[UNSC]]'s early battles on [[Harvest]], but also features another colony world, [[Arcadia]], which holds "''something of great interest to the Covenant''". The planet is subsequently invaded by the Covenant, and the [[UNSC]] must evacuate the planet while engaging the invasion force. The [[Flood]] is significant in the storyline and several massive [[Forerunner]] structures are also explored.

This game differs from previous Halo titles in that [[Master Chief]] does not make any appearance, although several key Spartans, collectively known as [[Red Team]], do factor into the plot. In contrast, the ''[[Spirit of Fire]]'' is "full of new characters", such as the AI [[Serina]], [[Ellen Anders|Professor Ellen Anders]], [[Sergeant]] [[John Forge]], and the ''[[Spirit of Fire]]'''s commander, [[Cutter]].<ref>[http://forums.halo.fr/viewtopic.php?p=315181 Interview-Graeme Devine]</ref> At least some of these characters go planetside to aid the player. The single player campaign is purely from the UNSC's perspective, though it is possible to play as the Covenant in a skirmish game or online. Co-op campaign over Xbox Live is also possible.

While Sergeant [[John Forge|Forge]] is patrolling the northern regions, [[Alpha Base (Harvest)|Alpha Base]] was attacked and destroyed by the Covenant, with survivors fleeing to the countryside surrounding the area. Rounding up these survivors, Forge leads them in an assault that removed the Covenant presence and re-established Alpha Base, returning it to operational status.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Alpha Base (Level)]]</ref> Forge leads an assault on the relic site itself, removing the Covenant occupiers and preventing the enemy from destroying it to deny human access, and securing the site for Anders to examine it briefly before a Covenant counter-attack cuts them off from Alpha Base.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Relic Approach (Level)]]</ref> [[Grizzly]] tanks launched from the ''[[Spirit of Fire]]'' manage to cut through the Covenant, linking up with Forge and his Marines, and escorting them back out through the relic while forces from [[Alpha Base]] hold off the Covenant. Information gathered from the Harvest relic shows that the Covenant have been pointed to a second UNSC colony, [[Arcadia]].<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Relic Interior (Level)]]</ref>

Following the Covenant to [[Arcadia]], they find that the most of the orbital defense ships have been either destroyed or damaged in battle with the Coventant(one of the many ships is the "[[UNSC Pillar of Autumn|Pillar of Autumn]]" which would be involved in the "Halo incident" 20 years later). Sgt. Forge and his forces deploy on the ground in order to assist the Spartans from [[Red Team]] in the effort to evacuate civilians from Arcadia City, via cargo transports.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Arcadia City (Level)''</ref> Afterward, the UNSC forces withdraw to a defensible area on the city outskirts, holding off Covenant attacks long enough for [[SPARTAN Group Omega]] to arrive and assist in the destruction of local Covenant forces.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Arcadia Outskirts]]</ref> At the same time, the Covenant have erected a large energy shield generator around a site of importance, with undiscovered ruins surrounding the area, forcing the UNSC to deploy prototype [[Rhino]] plasma artillery to penetrate it.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Dome of Light (Level)]]</ref> Moving in to examine what was of such interest to the Covenant, they come under attack from a large Scarab, only partially complete and annihilating any UNSC forces in its line of sight. Eventually managing to destroy it, Anders and Forge begin documenting the area, only for the [[Arbiter (Halo Wars)|Arbiter]] to arrive, taking Anders prisoner and wounding Sergeant Forge, with Red Team arriving too late to assist.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Scarab (Level)]]</ref> Rapidly heading out of the system aboard a starship, the ''Spirit of Fire'' follows, eventually emerging in orbit over a [[Shield World (Halo Wars)|mysterious planet]] in an unknown location.

Deploying ground forces to search for Anders, the UNSC and Covenant forces come under attack from a previously undiscovered alien organism - the Flood.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Ander's Signal (Level)]]</ref> Managing to regroup and hold a defensible location, the UNSC forces manage to locate the source of the signal - an apparent body of water.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[The Flood (Level)]]</ref> The UNSC forces withdraw back to the ''Spirit of Fire'' as a concentrated Flood force begins to gather momentum, narrowly escaping annihilation, regrouping at the ''Spirit of Fire'' over the lake - which splits to reveal an entrance, and with swarms of [[Sentinels]] emerging to deal with the Flood.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Shield World (Level)]]</ref> The ''Spirit of Fire'' manages to enter, proceeding through a docking system, removing Flood growths and moving through a system of concentric rings that filters out Flood biomass<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Cleansing (Level)]]</ref>, the ''Spirit of Fire'' emerges inside a massive [[Shield World]], immediately engaging a [[Covenant Destroyer]] and fending off attacks while conducting repairs.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Repairs (Level)]]</ref>

The Arbiter uses Anders to activate [[The Apex]], revealing a fleet of Forerunner warships which the Covenant plans on reverse-engineering and incorporating into their existing naval forces to crush the humans quickly, without needing to dedicate all of their existing forces to the war. Anders manages to escape, using what had been her stasis prison as a translocation device, teleporting to the surface of the Shield World's interior, linking up with Forge and his Marines, who clear the area of [[Covenant]] forces and establish a base of operations on the Shield World.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Beachhead (Level)]]</ref> Removing the ''Spirit of Fire'''s FTL Reactor, the UNSC move it into The Apex, planning to detonate it - the chain-reaction will send the Shield World's sun into a supernova, destroying the installation and the fleet, denying it to the Covenant and saving humanity from near total defeat and extinction. The [[Arbiter]] attempts to stop them, but his [[Honor Guards]] are killed by [[Red Team]], and Forge himself manages to kill the Arbiter with one of his own Energy Swords.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Reactor (Level)]]</ref> Forge stays behind to detonate the reactor, while the rest of the UNSC forces activate a portal out of the Shield World, evacuate to the ''Spirit of Fire'', and manage to slingshot around the sun to build up enough speed to escape the supernova's blast radius and the range of the Shield World's debris.<ref>''[[Halo Wars]]'', [[Escape (Level)]]</ref>

Now unable to return to UNSC space with the speed an FTL drive would have afforded them, the ''Spirit of Fire'''s crew enter cryonics storage. The ship begins its long journey home, likely to take many years or Decades. Here, Sgt. Forge's cyro tube is closed by Captain Cutter, who briefly nods, upon which the camera pans down to find the words "Sgt. J. Forge", insinuating the death of the valiant Marine, and Cutter's own acknowledgment of the Marine's sacrifice.

In the final moments of the credits, Serina speaks the final words of the game, saying "Captain. Wake up. Something has happened," As the logo appears on the screen.

The final fate of the [[Spirit of Fire]] is unknown. Investigations by the UNSC and ONI are officially closed a few years after it is officially designated MIA, but there is some evidence that the ship does at some point return to UNSC space, with the strongest argument being the number of Spartans present during the [[Fall of Reach]]; At the time, 25 of the remaining 28 are present on the planet, with the three missing identified as [[Grey Team]] and the remaining dead or missing all previously identified, leading credence to the idea that Red Team, and thus Spirit of Fire, do eventually reunite with the UNSC. However it is noted that since Spirit of Fire's crew were the first humans to encounter the Flood, information should have been reported to ONI, but the first recorded Human-Flood encounter was in 2552, 21 years later, on Halo Installation 04, meaning that either the Spirit of Fire did not come back or ONI kept the 2531 Human-Flood encounter a closely-guarded secret.

[[Image:The Arbiter - Halo Wars.png|right|thumb|100px|The Arbiter that appears in ''Halo Wars''.]]

[[Image:Prophet of Regret.jpg|right|thumb|100px|The Prophet of Regret as he appears in ''Halo Wars''.]]

Aside from CGI cut scenes and on-the-battlefield appearances, characters in ''Halo Wars'' often appear in talking head animations. Where a small view screen appears in the upper left corner showing the face of the character speaking at the moment.

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====[[UNSC]]====

*[[James Gregory Cutter|Captain James Gregory Cutter]]

*[[Ellen Anders|Professor Ellen Anders]]

*[[John Forge|Sergeant John Forge]]

*[[Alice-130|SPARTAN Alice-130]]

*[[Douglas-042|SPARTAN Douglas-042]]

*[[Jerome-092|SPARTAN Jerome-092]]

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*[[Prophet of Regret]]

===[[United Nations Space Command]]===

[[Image:Hijacking Spartan.jpg|right|thumb|140px|A [[SPARTAN-II]] hijacking a [[Type-25 Assault Gun Carriage]].]]

[[Image:Marines.PNG|right|thumb|140px|[[UNSC Marine Corps|UNSC Marines]]]]

*[[SPARTAN-II]]: SPARTAN-IIs are individual units who are superior to Marines. They begin with dual-wielded [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun|SMGs]] and can hijack enemy vehicles (although this is not the case against uber units), bringing them under player control. They can also be upgraded to have [[AIE-486H Heavy Machine Gun|chain guns]] and [[Spartan Lasers]] as well as Neural Implants which help them hijack vehicles faster.<ref name = "IGN E3 2008: ''Halo Wars'' Hands-on">[http://au.xbox360.ign.com/articles/890/890357p1.html E3 2008: Halo Wars Hands-on]. ''Alex Simmons''. Accessed on 2008-17-07</ref> When a SPARTAN pilots a vehicle or hijacks an enemy vehicle, their rank is added to the vehicle's rank and the captured vehicle's stats are increased. Only three SPARTANs can be deployed at a time. They are outfitted with the [[MJOLNIR Mk. IV]]; the in-game units posses traits that are trademarks of the Mk. V armor, however this is for gameplay considerations and is not accepted as canon.

*[[Hellbringers]]<ref name="Forum">http://www.halowars.com/forums/thread/242938.aspx</ref>: Also known as flamethrower units, these Marines are specialists equipped with heavier armor and flame-throwers that can be used to torch entire infantry units. They can be upgraded with Flash Bang Grenades, which stun enemies when hit, napalm ammunition, which allows their attacks to burn slightly afterwards, and oxide tanks, which also increase damage. They can run somewhat faster than Marines.<ref name = "IGN E3 2008: ''Halo Wars'' Hands-on"/>

*[[UNSC Marine Corps|UNSC Marines]]: Marines are the basic infantry of the UNSC who are armed with [[MA5 Series]] rifles and have the special ability to throw [[M9 High-Explosive Dual-Purpose Grenade|grenades]].<ref name = "CES 09">[http://www.g4tv.com/ces2009/hdvideos/36151/Halo-Wars-CES-09-Cam-Footage.html Halo Wars CES 09 Cam Footage]. ''G4''. Accessed on 2009-01-20</ref> The squads can be upgraded to replace their [[grenades]] with [[Rocket Launcher]]s (called RPGs in-game), making them more effective against vehicles and giving them newly found combat superiority against air units.<ref name = "IGN E3 2008: ''Halo Wars'' Hands-on"/> They usually operate in teams of four but may add another member to their squads via the "[[New Blood]]" upgrade<ref name = "CES 09"/>, and a [[medic]] via the [[medic upgrade]], adding up to a total of six squad members. However, the medic can only heal existing squad members, not do so and bring back dead members consecutively.

*[[Orbital Drop Shock Troopers]]: Also known in the books and the game as "Helljumpers" in reference to the heat of the HEV pod they use to descend from orbit, this is an available upgrade for infantry. It can be upgraded at the [[Barracks]].<ref name = "OXM">January 2009, ''Official Xbox Magazine'', pp 38-43</ref> The upgrades effects allow the player to substitute standard Marine squads with ODST teams (armed with M90 Shotguns), as well as the HEV drop. The HEV drops can also be used as a weapon similar to the MAC Blast. To do so the player must select the HEV drop ability and put them over an enemy unit. ODST squads still use the Rocket Launcher ability. They are only available as the special upgrade for Captain Cutter. Effects include increased line of sight and more hitpoints.

*[[M90 Close Assault Weapon System]] (Shotgun) (Used by Forge and ODST squads)

*[[MA5B Individual Combat Weapon System]] (Assault Rifle)

*[[Sniper Rifle System 99C-S2 AM|SRS99C-S2 AM Sniper Rifle]]

*[[AIE-486H Heavy Machine Gun]] (Spartans)

*[[Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle]] (Spartan Laser) (Spartans)

*[[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun]] (SMG) (Spartans)

*[[Fragmentation Grenade]]- Secondary Marine weapon, upgraded to rocket launchers

[[Image:HW10.jpg|right|thumb|140px|A [[Shortsword-class Bomber]].]]

[[Image:WaH.jpg|right|thumb|140px|UNSC "Flame" [[Warthog]] and Covenant Honor Guard [[Type-25 Assault Gun Carriage|Wraith]].]]

====Vehicles====

*[[Warthog|M12 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle]] (Warthog): Can be upgraded to carry an [[M41 LAAG]] and later an [[M68 Gauss Cannon]] at a reduction of speed. Can jump gaps, and has ramming ability as its special attack. May be upgraded so its passenger has a grenade launcher. Ramming ability is strong enough to destroy a ghost.<ref name = "CES 09">[http://www.g4tv.com/ces2009/hdvideos/36151/Halo-Wars-CES-09-Cam-Footage.html Halo Wars CES 09 Cam Footage]. ''G4''. Accessed on 2009-01-20</ref>

*[[Warthog|"Flaming" M12 Warthog Light Reconnaissance Vehicle]] (Warthog) : This variant Warthog is only aesthetically different than the original vehicle in the game.  

*[[M808 Scorpion MBT]]: The M808 Scorpion is the basic Human tank that can be upgraded to the "[[Grizzly]]" variant.

**Upgrade 1: The Scorpion gains the "canister shell" Y-ability.

**Upgrade 2: The Scorpion has a faster turret rotation speed.

**[[Grizzly|Grizzly variant]]<ref name=Forum/>: An upgrade of the Scorpion, it packs two cannons and a Machine Gun. This upgrade is only available when the player chooses [[Sergeant Forge]] as his or her [[Hero Units|hero unit]] in [[Skirmish|skirmish mode]] or [[multiplayer]].

*[[Behemoth-class Troop Transport]]<ref name=Forum/> (Elephant): The Elephant, as it is more commonly known, can carry squads into combat and can fulfill the role of a barracks in the field, along with having the ability to be upgraded with a Cannon (though only if deployed), Twin Engines to upgrade speed, and Ceramic armor to allow the Elephant to take more damage. During the campaign, it is used to tow an FTL Drive up a mountain to the Apex. During multiplayer and skirmish, it is [[Captain Cutter]]'s unique unit. Note that the dialogue of the Elephant is drastically reduced after the Defense Turret upgrade.

 

*[[Gremlin Combat Support Vehicle|Gremlin]]: A combat support vehicle, the Gremlin is [[Professor Anders]]'s unique unit. It attacks with an EMP cannon that disables vehicles or non-infantry units temporarily. It can be upgraded to fire farther and hit harder and to make the EMP blast chain through multiple vehicles. The Gremlin has absolutely no combat efficiency against air units.[http://www.halowars.com/forums/459293/ShowThread.aspx#459293]

 

*[[Rhino]]: The Rhino is a heavy tracked unit that has a greater defense but lower attack than the Scorpion. The Rhino is armed with a heavy prototype plasma cannon stolen from the Covenant that lobs giant plasma bolts. The Rhino is only in the campaign and not available in skirmish. Another ground unit incapable of eliminating air units.

 

*[[Wolverine]]: The Wolverine is a specialized anti-aircraft vehicle that uses guided missiles to shoot down enemy aircraft, such as [[Banshees]] or [[Vampires]]. While powerful in this aspect, it is especially weak against infantry and anti-armor vehicles, and must be heavily protected.

 

*[[Cobra]]<ref name=Forum/>: The Cobra is a heavy anti-armor vehicle armed with a pair of rail cannons which can easily tear apart enemy armor. It can be outfitted with stronger armor when locked down and its rail cannons can be upgraded to penetrate multiple enemies. It's special ability allows it to lock down for greater range, at the expense of zero mobility. Cobras cannot attack aerial units.<ref>[http://www.halowars.com/GameInfo/vehicledepot.aspx#Cobra]</ref>

 

*[[Cyclops|Cyclops Exoskeleton]]<ref name=Forum/>: The Cyclops is a re-appropriated support exoskeleton that can crush ground enemies in close combat, often finishing off infantry with impressive fatality moves. Can also repair damaged vehicles and buildings if the player upgrades it once. A second upgrade of the unit improves speed. (Unique to [[Sergeant Forge]])

 

*[[Dropship 77-Troop Carrier|D77-TC Pelican Dropship]]: The Pelican is a UNSC ability that is called from the ''Spirit of Fire'' menu. The pickup area is selected, then the drop-off area. The Pelican can transport multiple units at one time. It can even take 2 Scorpions at once with a second Pelican airlifting the third. If it is destroyed, all units being carried by it are lost as well.

 

*[[Shortsword-class Bomber]]: Shortsword bombers perform low-altitude bombing runs for support on the battlefield.

 

*[[Hornet]]<ref name=Forum/>: The Hornet is a light gunship that can carry two passengers to provide support and fire on enemy ground and air targets. If upgraded once ("Wingmen" upgrade) two Marines equipped with rocket launchers ride on the Hornet for increased damage. A second upgrade ("Chaff Pods") allows for better avoidance of missile attacks.

**[[Hawk]]: The Hawk is a further upgraded version of the hornet that is equipped with a mounted [[laser]] for large damage. The dual autoguns have a slower rate of fire but sport increased damage per shot. (Unique to [[Professor Anders]])

 

*[[Vulture]]: The Vulture is a large gunship that can deliver heavy amounts of fire against all targets. It can be upgraded once to double the number of missiles to eight in its special attack "barrage", which previously carries four. It is the UNSC "Uber-unit", and though it is nowhere near the Scarab's strength and resilience, it makes up for this deficit by being less than a third of the cost of a Scarab in both population and supplies.

 

*[[Albatross]]: The Albatross is used to ferry supplies from the ''Spirit of Fire'' to ground-side facilities.  

*[[Pod]]: This dropship, larger than both the Pelican and Albatross, delivers extremely large objects, such as portions of [[Firebase]]s, to ground positions.

*[[Firebase]]/[[Station]]/[[Fortress]]: Provides the basic base of the UNSC with optional "add on" buildings that can increase its usefulness. May be upgraded to a station then a fortress ([[Captain Cutter]] can drop in already upgraded stations and starts with a Fortress).

**[[Field Armory]]: A combination of machine shop and laboratory that provides high-tech upgrades for the UNSC.

**[[UNSC Barracks]]: The barracks can provide a number of infantry types for combat and to upgrade.

**[[UNSC Supply Pad]]: Supply Pads are used to get supplies from the ''Spirit of Fire'' via Albatross dropships. Can also be upgraded to Heavy Supply Pad.

**[[Base Turret]]: Initially armed with an [[M202 XP Machine Gun]] which may be replaced by an [[M41 LAAG]]. The turret may be outfitted with a rail cannon for use against vehicles, a flame mortar for use against infantry, or a missile launcher for use against aircraft. Only available on "Station/Fortress" Command bases.<ref>[http://www.halowars.com/GameInfo/firebase.aspx#Turret]</ref>

*'''[[Transport]]''': Call a [[Pelican]] down to transport selected units (Maximum of 3 vehicles and a number of infantry) to a selected area of the map.  

*'''[[Disruption Bomb]]''': A bomb that deactivates any leader powers and prevents others being activated in a short radius during the effect.<ref>http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41104.html</ref>

*'''[[Heal and Repair]]''': Heals all units and repairs all structures in a selected area.<ref name = "Gamereactor">2008-04-11, [http://www.gamereactor.no/grtv/?id=3396&sid=5bb9748a525446234980eb00694fb89a TGS08: Halo Wars Gameplay Presentation]. ''Gamereactor TV''. Accessed on 2008-17-12</ref>

*'''[[Magnetic Accelerator Cannon|MAC]] [[MAC Blast|Blast]]''': Calls down a MAC blast from Spirt of Fire's onboard MAC. Upgrades allow for more shots before the power has to recharge. (Unique to [[Captain Cutter]])<ref>http://www.shacknews.com/featuredarticle.x?id=446</ref>

*'''[[ODST]] Drop''': ODST pods, individually aimed by the user, are called down at 100 resources each. The Pods will spawn a whole ODST squad. Note that it is much faster to drop them from their pods than producing them in a Barracks or via the Elephant, but beware if your reactors are destroyed or a bonus reactor garrison squad is killed.<ref>http://e3.g4tv.com/e32008/videos/26921/Hands_On_Halo_Wars.html</ref> (Unique to [[Captain Cutter]]; only available after the ODST upgrade has been researched)

*'''[[Cryo Bomb]]''': The Cryo Bomb freezes any units and buildings within the blast radius. Units are unable to move when frozen and buildings halt all activity. When frozen, air units have a chance of falling to the ground, shattering instantly. The more the Cryo Bomb is upgraded, the freeze time and the chance make air units fall increases. Note that this also has an effect on your team. (Unique to Professor Anders)

*'''[[Carpet Bomb]]''' Calls in a bomber to wipe out a large area. Effective against mass infantry or ground vehicles. The more times it is upgraded, the stronger and larger the carpet bomb is. (Unique to Sergeant Forge)

===[[Covenant]]===

[[Image:Brute_1024.jpg|thumb|right|The [[Brute Army Commander]] in ''Halo Wars'']]

[[Image:OMG Duel Energy Swords!.jpg|thumb|right|Concept art for the [[Elite]] grasping two [[Energy Swords]].]]

*[[Unggoy]] (Grunts): Fight in lances consisting of a Sangheili Minor (or, depending on the player's selected leader, a Brute Minor) and several [[Grunts]]. They have the secondary ability to throw Plasma Grenades and can be upgraded with Needlers, additional members, and a [[Deacon]] to boost combat capabilities, through spirituality.<ref>http://halowars.com/images/cov/covenant_grunt_squad.jpg</ref>

**[[Unggoy#Overall in Combat##Suicide Grunt|Suicide Unggoy]] (Suicide Grunts): Will berserk and blow themselves up on command. Leader-specific unit of the Arbiter. The explosion is very effective against buildings. They can be upgraded to receive more speed in suicide mode as well as to amplify damage to their suicide attack through the use of deadly adherents.

**Bomber Unggoy: A grunt that carries an explosive that can eliminate an entire infantry squad. They only appear in campaign.

*[[Sangheili]] (Elites): In addition to leading Unggoy lances, Elites serve many other roles, such as drivers of vehicles and pilots of aircraft.

**[[Honor Guard Elite]]: Honor Guards serve as powerful anti-infantry units, or more rather, a close combat substitute for Jackals. They can be upgraded with energy shields and active camouflage and are the leader-specific unit of the [[Prophet of Regret]].

**[[Unnamed Arbiter|Arbiter]]: An antagonist in the campaign and a leader unit in multiplayer. The Arbiter starts with dual energy swords and rage special attack that drains resources but makes the Arbiter go on a "killing spree". The Arbiter will face extreme difficulty against sentinels, even in rage mode. Counter this weakness with any unit that can attack air units or with the Arbiter "Fiendish Return" upgrade.

**Needler Elites: A pair of Elites that wield [[Needler]]s and have an [[Energy Shield]]. They cannot be trained in skirmish mode even if a Covenant leader is played, and are exclusive to campaign mode.

*[[Mgalekgolo]] (Hunters): Hunters are heavily armored and armed with fuel rod-launching Assault Cannons, like they are in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''. They are the Covenant's primary anti-vehicle infantry. When upgraded, they can receive their traditional shield, a "Spirit Bond" to increase damage given that both of the initial Hunters are alive (this means resurrected Hunters do not receive the Spirit Bond upgrade), and later they can fire a more powerful beam from their cannons.

*[[Kig-Yar]]  (Jackals): Jackals fight in pairs in ''Halo Wars'' and provide good defense against Marines armed with conventional weapons but little defense against grenades, explosives or vehicles. They are originally armed with Carbines without shields but can be upgraded to incorporate Point Defense Gauntlets, Beam Rifles, and eventually stronger gauntlets in the later stages of the Covenant tech tree.

*[[Jiralhanae]] (Brutes): In battle the Brutes wield Brute Shots, which are devastating against infantry and effective against light vehicles. Due to their limited battlefield use prior to the events of ''[[Halo 2]]'', they are apparently leader-specific units belonging to the unknown [[Brute Army Commander|Chieftain]]. They can be upgraded to have [[Jump Pack Brute|Jump packs]] and more powerful brute shots. The "Electric Shot" upgrade appears to only stun ground vehicles and Turrets.<ref>http://www.xbox.com/NR/rdonlyres/31804095-7B32-4CE2-A17E-3CB54A3692EF/0/HaloWars_MNL_EN.PDF</ref>

**Jiralhanae [[Brute Chieftain|Chieftain]]. The only usable Brute Chieftain is the same Chieftain that can be selected as a leader, making him a "hero" unit for the faction like the Arbiter.<ref>http://www.xbox.com/NR/rdonlyres/31804095-7B32-4CE2-A17E-3CB54A3692EF/0/HaloWars_MNL_EN.PDF</ref>

*[[San 'Shyuum]] (Prophets): Prophets fight from their [[Gravity Thrones]] and can attack enemy infantry with their destructive plasma weapons. The only usable in-game Prophet is the [[Prophet of Regret]], who can only be used if he is chosen as a "leader" before the start of the game.<ref>http://www.xbox.com/NR/rdonlyres/31804095-7B32-4CE2-A17E-3CB54A3692EF/0/HaloWars_MNL_EN.PDF</ref> The Prophet's Plasma Cannons can be upgraded to Fuel Rod Cannons for increased damage. His second upgrade adds a pair of Offensive  Protectors to protect him and his final upgrade gives him full flight capabilities. His leader power is called "Cleansing," where an energy projector's beam is called down from an orbiting warship to quickly incinerate anything beneath it.

**[[Protectors]] - a pair of Sentinel-like Protectors guard the Prophet of Regret after the player researches ''Ancestral Perversion''.

*[[Huragok]] (Engineers): Sent into combat zones to repair damaged vehicles and structures, as well as squads of infantry.<ref name="Demo"/> The upgrade, State of Grace, will increase its repair rate while the upgrade, Harmonious Digestion, will increase its speed. An Engineer may repair other Engineers, but not itself. <ref>http://www.halowars.com/GameInfo/Covenant.aspx</ref>

'''Weapons'''

*[[Type-2 Energy Weapon/Hammer]] (Gravity Hammer), only ever held by the Brute Chieftain.

*[[Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher]] (Needler), received by upgrading Grunts.

*[[Type-33 Light Anti-Armor Weapon]] (Fuel Rod Gun)

*[[Type-51 Carbine]] (Covenant Carbine)

*[[Type-47 Ultra Heavy Assault Platform]] (Scarab): The Scarab is a super-unit that can destroy infantry, ground vehicles, and aircraft with ease. The Scarab is extremely resilient to most weapons fire. Both the ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3'' versions have been seen, though the ''Halo 2'' era Scarab has not appeared in more recent ''Halo Wars'' videos and demos. Spartans are unable to hijack Scarabs, with the exception of one campaign level in which the Covenant abandon a scarab and you have a choice to get it. The Scarab is unique in its ability to traverse what is considered "rough terrain". In other words, the Scarab can climb over cliffs, mountains, and some structures because of its size and structuring. This makes it the only playable ground unit in the game able to do so (Flood infection forms can also do this but they are not playable).<ref>http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41104.html</ref>

[[Image:Two_Scarabs.jpg|thumb|The Scarab walker in Multiplayer. Note that you can build two in one battle and as many as four in a deathmatch.]]

*[[Super Scarab]]: Seen in the 7th campaign level and is larger and more powerful than a normal scarab. It's legs aren't built yet.

*[[Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle]] (Ghost): The Ghost is a light attack vehicle that excels against infantry but not other vehicles. Can be upgraded to have a ramming boost ability, similar to the Warthog's Ram ability. Can also be upgraded to strafe as to avoid incoming grenades and rockets and to have a light energy shield.

*[[Type-25 Rapid Assault Vehicle]] (Chopper): The Chopper is a scout-class vehicle available only to the Brute Chieftain leader. The Chopper starts without any guns and is only able to ram hostile ground targets. The Chopper can then be upgraded to include dual cannons on the sides of the Chopper to give the Chopper combat capability and additional ramming targets to increase ramming damage and decrease feedback damage (the damage the Chopper takes after ramming). The autocannons can also be upgraded to equip stabilizers, improving autocannon accuracy and damage.<ref>http://au.xbox360.ign.com/dor/objects/857436/halo-wars/images/halo-wars-20081113023451375.html</ref>

*[[Type-25 Assault Gun Carriage]]: The Wraith is the main battle tank of the Covenant and is armed with a plasma mortar and a plasma turret capable of decimating enemy infantry and vehicles. It can also be upgraded to allow for the "Scorch" special ability, as well as to have an energy shield. The mortar can also be upgraded to receive a large overall damage boost.

**[[Honor Guard Wraith]]: This unique looking type of Wraith is only available by activating a skull exclusive to the special edition.

*[[Locust]]: A smaller counterpart to the Covenant [[Scarab]] which is described as a "building-killer". When upgraded with the overdrive ability, the Locust can drain its shields for extra power by using the secondary attack button. Another upgrade for the Locust allows its shield to regenerate faster, which can be bolstered by the "Forerunner Shield" upgrade to compound the recharge speed.

====Aircraft====

*[[Type-26 Ground Support Aircraft]], otherwise known as the Banshee: The Banshee can attack infantry, tanks and other air vehicles due to its twin Plasma Cannons and single Fuel Rod Cannon. With upgrades, Banshees' rate of fire on their Plasma Cannons is increased and Banshees can attempt to crash into enemy units or buildings when they are shot down, causing extra damage.

*[[DX-class Dropship|DX-class Dropship Spirit]]: The Spirit is the rival to the UNSC Pelican, capable of carrying vehicles and infantry in addition to giving them fire support. The screen for the Spirit of Fire is not available for the covenant and therefore these cannot be called upon to transport troops or vehicles in skirmish or multiplayer.

*[[Vampire]]: A Covenant flying vehicle; a potent craft fitted to fight against hostile air vehicles. It can be upgraded to have a stasis beam that drains enemy aircraft health and replenishes its own. It should be accompanied by Banshees to defend from ground units.

*[[Engineer]]: a combat support unit that can heal any type of ally.  It can be upgraded to increased to State of Grace which increases healing speed. The second upgrade is Harmonious Digestion which increeses the speed of the engineer.

====Buildings====

[[Image:Glassinglaz0r.jpg|thumb|150px|right|Glassing in ''Halo Wars''.]]

*[[Outpost]]/[[Keep]]/[[Citadel_(Covenant)|Citadel]]: Provides the basic base of the Covenant with optional 'add on' buildings that can increase its usefulness. Outpost can be upgraded to Keep and then to a Citadel.

**[[Shield Generator (Covenant)|Shield Generator]]: Provides shield protection for the whole Citadel. It is possible to have multiple shield generators, thus improving the Citadel's shielding.

**[[Warehouse (Covenant)|Warehouse]]: The warehouse is how the Covenant receive supplies. Gravity lifts bring supplies down and workers move them to their proper area. The warehouse can be upgraded to a blessed warehouse receive supplies more often.

**[[Plasma Turret]]: The main defenses of a Covenant base, the Turret first starts with Plasma Turrets, but can be upgraded with a Plasma Mortar, [[Fuel Rod Cannon]], or a [[Heavy Needler]].

**[[Temple (Covenant)|Temple]]: A Covenant research building, the upgrades are very expensive but are very effective and powerful.

**[[Summit (Covenant)|Summit]]: The roost of the Covenant air force, the Summit builds Banshees, Vampires and Engineers.

**[[Hall (Covenant)|Hall]]: The home of Covenant soldiers, Grunt lances, Jackal pairs and Hunter pairs are trained here. The building also researches minor upgrades for Covenant infantry.

**[[Factory (Covenant)|Factory]]: The manufacturing plant of the Covenant, the Factory builds Ghost scouts, Wraith tanks and Locust walkers.

*[[Anti-Vehicle Barrier]]: Same device used to block tunnels on the level [[Tsavo Highway]] in ''Halo 3'', most likely used for defense. To be used, infantry needs to go on it like a [[Deployable Lookout Tower|Lookout Tower]]. This is only available in Campaign. .<ref>http://xbox360.gamespy.com/dor/objects/857436/halo-wars/images/halo-wars-20081009024128843.html</ref>

*[[Type-26 ASG]] (Shade): The ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' variant of the Shade is featured as a defensive Structure. This is only available in Campaign.<ref>http://www.mondoxbox.com/immagini.php?game=1128&view=1&start=9#topnav</ref>

*[[Deployable Lookout Tower]]: Can be used to garrison infantry units from both players (in co-op), increasing their combat capabilities.

*[[Mega Turret]]: A massive turret featured in campaign where the Mega Turret looks like a upgraded version for the Heavy Turret. It's power is very high and it is advisable to take it out with the MAC Blast. It also feature as a neutral garrison able structure on [[Tundra]]. Here it fires in barrages and takes time to recharge. It is indestructible (but as always, the garrisoned troops can be killed).

*[[Gravity Lift]]: Each Covenant base has a [[Gravity Lift]] right outside. Gravity Lifts let the Covenant's players to do "Hot Dropping" which allows to send any units (except the Scarab) directly to their Leader's location.<ref>[http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?pager.offset=1&cId=3172311&p= 1]</ref>

*[[Glassing]]: This appears to be used as a Covenant super weapon. The glassing ship can fire this from orbit to destroy ground positions and units. Can be upgraded for an even more devastating effect. This is named the "[[Cleansing Beam]]" in the game and is the [[Prophet of Regret]]'s leader power.

===Rebels===

* [[Unnamed Harvest Rebel Group|Insurrectionists (Rebel Infantry)]]: Can be found occupying secondary base sites, and the area around any Forerunner structures and/or garrisonable areas that give bonuses, supply elevators, reactors, etc. They come usually armed with Assault rifles, and in conjunction may use Rocket Launchers.

*[[Rebel Sniper]]: Counter-infantry units armed with sniper rifles, come in groups of 2.

* Rebel Warthog: Repurposed UNSC Warthog with a Gauss cannon and Insurrectionist paint job. (Only confirmed in concept art, cut in final game)

* Rebel EMP: Insurrectionist wielding an EMP weapon similar to the Gremlin's main weapon. (Only confirmed in concept art, cut in final game)

* Rebel Base: A haphazardly constructed base surrounded by concertina wire and guarded by turrets, built on thriving UNSC worlds.

* Rebel Turret: Turrets that protect the Rebel Bases, identical to the Turrets used by the UNSC but much bigger.

* Rebel Watchtower: A tower that alerts Infantry to the attacking faction of the Rebel base.

===[[Forerunner]]===

*[[Sentinel]]: Standard Sentinel, fires a standard beam, doing medium damage. Occupies Forerunner Secondary base sites and bonuses.

*[[Super Sentinel]]: Can slow down enemy units and have a more powerful sentinel beam than the standard Sentinels, cannot attack air units, rendering it harmless against air units.

*[[Protector]]: Able to be "attached" to units, providing either a rechargeable energy shield, replenishing health, or a pulse laser weapon depending on the type of Protector. The "Ancestral Perversion" upgrade gives the Prophet of Regret two of these on any map.

*[[Sentinel Shop]]: Produces Sentinels for the player who stands near it. Only found on the multiplayer level [[Repository]].

*[[Forerunner Supply Elevator]]: Produces supplies when infantry are garrisoned inside it. Equivalent to an additional Supply Pad or Warehouse. Means you can build one less Supply Pad/Warehouse.

*[[Forerunner Teleporter]]: Instantly sends units to another teleporter location. In most maps, these are just one way.

*[[Forerunner Bonus Reactor]]: Increases tech level of any player that controls it. This will mean you can have an extra slot on open in a base for other usage.

*[[Forerunner Lifesupport Pod]]: Increases the max population for any player who controls it.

*[[Forerunner Fort]]: Outpost guarded by automated systems, including laser turrets and a shield wall. Retracts in on itself after sustaining enough damage.

*[[Protector Plant]]: Produces three types of Protectors for the player who stands near it. Only found on the multiplayer level [[Labyrinth]].

*[[Energy Wall]]: Generates an impassable energy wall when garrisoned with troops. Only found on the multiplayer maps [[Fort Deen]] and [[Tundra]].

*[[Relic (Halo Wars)|Relic]]: Releases flood upon an enemy when infantry are garrisoned inside it. Only found on the multiplayer level [[Release]].

===The [[Flood]]===

[[Image:Halo Wars Flood.jpg|thumb|left|Flood biomass and tentacles ensnare an [[Elephant]], with Flood [[Infection Form]]s and [[Combat Form]]s in the background.]]

{{Quote|There is quite a bit of concern regarding how we’re going to fit the [[Flood]] into our game and keep it in canon which surprised me, but I promised them all that the ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved|Halo 1]]'' canon is intact and that they would have to wait and see how we integrate the Flood.|Graeme Devine<ref>http://halowars.com/news/articles/archive/2008/10/14/Hello-from-TGS.aspx</ref>}}

The [[Flood]] are a faction within the game, though the player is unable to use them. The Flood gain units by taking over [[Human]] and [[Covenant]] troops.[[Image:Flood Barracks.jpg|thumb|285px|A Flood Spawning Grounds under siege by [[Covenant]] [[Locust]]s.]]

[[Flood]] [[Infection Form]]s, [[Combat Form]]s, [[Carrier Form]]s and what look remotely like [[Gravemind]] tentacles are the Flood's main attack force. In the February issue of ''GamePro'' it is confirmed that there will be new Flood forms in ''Halo Wars''. New ones tend to include a new form which appears to be a flood-infected [[Engineer]], named the 'Bomber Form'. It appears to drop acid on units and buildings and when killed drops infection forms. The reason the Flood cannot be controlled by the player is due to balance issues, as they would have to be balanced out against the 2 playable factions. In the multiplayer map [[Release]], they are a hostile force to both sides of the battle and can be exploited by the players as a blessing or a curse.  

In respect to keeping the appearance of the Flood in canon with the rest of the series, the game has the [[Spirit of Fire]] traveling back to Earth at speeds slower than light after its mission had ended, making it impossible for them to report the existence of the Flood.  However, this raises further [http://halo.wikia.com/wiki/Spartan-II#SPARTAN-IIs_Conscripted| controversy] over the presence of the Spartans on board the Spirit of Fire.  

[[Image:Pedia.jpg|thumb|A Flood Infection Form is seen on the bottom left.]]

*[[Infection Form]]s have the ability to crawl over walls, increasing its potent abilities, and is able to reach ground no other forces can reach. When any infantry encounter Infection forms, they are soon attacked and infected. This applies to all combat infantry in game, including both Grunts and Jackals, turning them into Combat Forms and making use their weapons.

*[[Combat Form]]s: The standard fighting force of the [[Flood]]. There are 5 additional types of Combat forms: Human, Elite, Brute, Jackal and Grunt forms in-game. Note when the infected units turn into the corresponding combat form, that units rank (if any) also goes with the combat form, making it more deadly.

:*[[Infected Flamethrowers]]: Flamethrower marines that were once owned by a player and then infected. They always wield [[Flamethrower]]s, as with living [[UNSC]] Flamethrower Marines. Infected Flamethrowers are a bit of a sub-category of Infected Marines, as they are exactly like Infected Marines but just wield Flamethrowers.

:*[[Brute Combat Form|Infected Brutes]]: Brutes that were infected by the flood.  They come in pairs when they spawn in campaign, or individually when they were formerly owned by a player and then infected. They always wield [[Brute Shot]]s, as with living Covenant brutes.

:*[[Flood Grunts|Infected Grunts]]: Grunts that were once owned by a player and then infected. Depending on their previous weaponry they will always wield either [[Plasma Pistol]]s or [[Needler]]s.

:*[[Infected Jackals]]: Jackals that have been infected by the flood.  They come in pairs when they spawn on skirmish maps, or individually when they were owned by a player and then infected.  They always wield [[Carbine]]s and Defense gauntlets (that can be overloaded) when infected by player controlled Jackals, despite previous weaponry, but have been encountered with [[Beam Rifle]]s when they are in scripted positions (i.e. additional reactors on flood levels).

*[[Carrier Form]]s: A suicidal unit that explodes and delivers its payload of [[Infection Forms]] directly into enemy lines.

*[[Flood Growth Pods]] now function as a double-edged sword: shooting them will sometimes releases precious resources for weapon and vehicle upgrades. At other times, however, they will release either a swarm of [[Infection Form]]s or a cloud of [[Flood spore]]s, both of which can destroy infantry squads in seconds. They appear as either large flood "eggs" the size of small vehicles, or as multiple of the ''Halo 3'' variety growing on tall stalks.

*[[Flood Thrasher Form]]s: Large, about the size of an elephant. Essentially an anti-vehicle [[Flood]] form, although easily killed.

*[[Flood spore]] clouds: A green mist that if units are in for too long, they are killed and infected.

*[[Flood Swarms]]: The first-ever-seen flying incarnation of the Flood, described by developers as "infected buzzards crossed with evil bats". These creatures travel in large airborne packs, and can emit dart-like projectiles to puncture enemies.

*[[Flood Bomber Form]]s: Large, bloated, airborne Flood forms. They attack by dropping [[Flood Growth Pods]] full of [[Infection Forms]] onto enemies.

*[[Flood Barracks]]: Organic structures that ceaselessly churn out a variety of attackers. They can't be destroyed by "conventional" weaponry, but players can damage them enough to force them into a withered, dormant state. The effect is only temporary, and given enough time, the Barracks will recover and begin producing more Flood forms.

*[[Flood Root]]: This form appears to be a defensive unit that "whips" or grabs units that get close to it.<ref>http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/strategy/halowars/video/6204958/halo-wars-video-review?hd=1</ref>

*[[Flood Colony]]: A large structure found in heavily infested areas. Used as a "base" by the Flood.<ref>http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/strategy/halowars/video/6204958/halo-wars-video-review?hd=1</ref>Regenerates only in the Campaign mode, otherwise opens up new base slots when killed.

*[[Proto-Gravemind]]: This appears to be the main [[Flood]]'s base's building. It seems to be connected to the [[Colony Form]]s, as whenever they take damage, the Proto-Gravemind takes damage too.<ref>http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/strategy/halowars/video/6204958/halo-wars-video-review?hd=1</ref>

*[[Flood Nest]]: A small organic building, shaped like a jellyfish which creates [[Infection Forms]] and [[Carrier Forms]].<ref>http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/strategy/halowars/video/6204958/halo-wars-video-review?hd=1</ref>

*[[Flood Launcher]]: Stationary tower-like forms that fire globs from their tops at enemies. These glob-like clouds have the ability to turn infantry units into infected forms. This makes them dangerous to approach. It appears Spartans are immune to the clouds.

*[[Flood Vent]]: Large vents covered in Flood biomass which create [[Flood Bomber Form]]s.

Civilians are only encountered on Mission 4: Arcadia City, where the Spirit of Fire and Spartan Red Team helps them board Cargo ships for evacuation from the city. They function as normal infantry units, with 5 people per "squad" and a health bar that can be healed from a Repair Beam.  

Arcadian Police. They come armed with M6D pistols, but do little damage and are easily killed.

====Known Civilians====

'''[[Adam]] - '''Adam is a male civilian, possibly a child due to the fact of a mother heard asking where her son Adam is near a terminal. He is only seen when you activate a control panel that opens up a door to a tower. He runs out and goes toward Cargo ship 2. If you can manage to escort him to the ship without him dying, you will unlock "[[The Real Winner]]" achievement. But the one thing that makes it difficult is that if he gets shot once, he dies.

[[Image:ThornBeastHW.png|thumb|right|180px|[[Thorn Beast]] seen in the middle of a battle.]]

Ambient life forms were planned to be encountered during gameplay. They may have been found on the battlefield, and might react to the actions of the player's forces (such as firing a weapon, flying around or near them, etc.).<ref>[http://www.halowars.com/default.aspx ''Halo Wars'' Update; 2008-02-07, Ambient Life].</ref> Examples include the [[Space Owl]], the [[Harvest Whale]], the [[Arctic Beast]], [[Arctic Ice Hound|Ice Hound]] and some sort of [[eel-snake creature]] that has yet to be named.

These creatures have been cut from the game, as the only ambient life visible on any campaign or multiplayer maps are birds who do not visibly react to actions taken by the player.

Throughout the campaign and in Skirmishes, the player must advance their technology in order to increase their army's power.  When technology is increased, more units, upgrades, and buildings become available. For instance, infantry units can receive additional members or stronger weaponry. Field Armories or Temples (and the upgrades within them) can become available with increased technology as well.

The tech tree is different for the two playable factions. When playing as the [[UNSC]], the player advances by building and upgrading [[reactor]]s. The [[Covenant]] moves through the tech-tree in [[History of the Covenant|Ages]] by purchasing upgrades at the leader temple. Players can also advance by capturing [[Forerunner Bonus Reactor]]s .

When a Reactor is built or an Age is researched, OR a Forerunner Bonus Reactor is claimed, the tech number on the top right of the screen goes up. If, say, a reactor is destroyed, the number goes down. Different buildings, units, and upgrades require higher numbers for use.

===Veterancy Points===

Veterancy points increases a unit's statistics, such as attack, attack speed, defense, etc. This number can be calculated by counting how many stars a unit has above their health bar. This is the number of veterancy points said unit has. The stars or "Veterancy Points" are acquired only after a unit or a group of units have defeated enemy structures, units, vehicles, or other combat related situations. They are also gained by upgrading the unit. A unit has a maximum of 3 stars, except a Spartan-Commandeered vehicle which has a maximum of 14 "Veterancy Points".  

Certain characters belonging to both the [[Covenant]] and the [[UNSC]] have been confirmed to be "leader factions", which are sub-factions with unique units and bonuses. All of the Covenant leaders appear on the battlefield and have unique in-game abilities. The UNSC leaders on the other hand do not appear on the battlefield but instead have economic bonuses and "super units" (upgrades of normal units). Currently known leaders are [[James Cutter|Captain James Cutter]], [[John Forge|Sergeant John Forge]], [[Anders|Professor Ellen Anders]], an [[Arbiter (Halo Wars)|Arbiter]], an unknown [[Brute Army Commander]] and the [[Prophet of Regret]]. Each leader has a number of unique features, for the UNSC it's "super units", economic bonuses, unique units (Cutter's Elephant, Forge's Cyclops and Anders' Gremlin.) and leader powers ([[ODST]] Drop/MAC Blast, Carpet bomb and Cryo bomb, respectively to leaders stated previously) that can be called from the ''Spirit of Fire''. The Covenant on the other hand have a unique unit (two for the brute leader) and a "hero unit" (their leader) with their leader power attached to the "hero unit". The Prophet of Regret's ability is to glass enemy forces (known as the "Cleansing Beam" in ''Halo Wars''), which causes significant damage to both structures and units, however it also drains resources while active. His unique units are Sangheili [[Honor Guards]]. The Arbiter can go into a rage mode and wield two energy swords and can upgrade to infinitely cloak himself, but at the cost of draining resources for every second these modes are active.<ref>OXM January 2009 article</ref> The Arbiter will also have the ability to train [[Kamikaze Grunt|Suicidal Grunts]]. The Brute Chieftain can use his [[Gravity Hammer]] to create a vortex which sucks in infantry, then the player can press the A button to create a massive explosion.  The Brute Chieftain's unique units are a pair of [[Brute Shot]] wielding Brutes (which can be upgraded to have jump packs) and the [[Chopper]].

Although Covenant leaders are limited to one at a time, they are some of the strongest units in the entire game. They can also empower surrounding units.<ref name = "Hands On">2008-17-11, [http://www.videogamer.com/xbox360/halo_wars/preview-1380.html Halo Wars Hands-on Preview]. ''Videogamer''. Accessed on 2008-19-11</ref>

==[[Achievement]]s==

There are 50 achievements available in ''Halo Wars'', adding up to a total of 1,000 Gamerscore.

==[[Halo Wars Skulls|Skulls]]==

Each level in ''Halo Wars'' has an optional objective where you are asked to kill a certain number of a certain unit type, such as killing 100 Grunts in the first mission, Alpha Base. Once this objective has been completed, the skull location will flash on the mini-maps for a couple of seconds, so it's important to watch the map as you complete the objective. To simplify this, the objective will have a counter that pops up every time you kill a unit of the designated unit type. For example, the HUD will show "56/100 Grunts Killed", when you have killed 56 grunts for that objective.

==[[Halo Wars Black Boxes|Black Boxes]]==

Black boxes are a new feature in the game. Black Boxes are collectibles in the ''Halo Wars'' campaign that when collected, they add new events in the [[Halo Wars Timeline]]. They look like black boxes with yellow stripes on them and can be picked up by any unit. When you collect one you can just resign straight away and you will still have it. The timeline covers many of the important events from the games and the novels.

[[Image:1209090473 Screenshots 1280 003.jpg|thumb|200px|right|[[Covenant]] forces engage humans on the level [[Chasms]].]]

Just like ''[[Halo 2]]'' & ''[[Halo 3]]'', ''Halo Wars'' has strong characteristics of online gaming. ''Halo Wars''' live gaming characteristics include Direct voice communication & Online leader boards. Unlike any of the other ''Halo'' games, now your vehicles' and troops' armor will change to the teams color so you can get red Hunters, purple Grunts, etc. There's no specific information regarding player ranking but players will be able to achieve the ranks of Recruit, Lieutenant, Major and General. As of now, multiplayer is said to be up to 6 players at a time in a match. Two player online Co-op for the campaign story will also be in the game.<ref>http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/2008/04/18/halo-wars-alpha-spotted-on-xbox-live/</ref><ref>http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=874562</ref>

Each multiplayer map apparently takes place on a different "world", each with its own musical theme and playlist.<ref>http://www.halowars.com/news/articles/archive/2008/04/28/Halo-Wars-Monthly-Update-4.28.08.aspx</ref> The Halo Rings won't be in the story, but may be included in future maps for multiplayer.<ref name = "Imagine"/>

*[[Beasley Plateau (Map)|Beasley Plateau]] - A multiplayer map set on a dense jungle plateau.<ref>http://www.gametrailers.com/player/40807.html</ref>

*[[Chasm (Map)|Chasm]] - A multiplayer map set on a frozen region of Harvest.<ref>http://www.gametrailers.com/player/40805.html</ref>

*[[Blood Gulch (Halo Wars Level)|Blood Gulch]] - A multiplayer map  based off designs from [[Blood Gulch (Level)|Blood Gulch]], the ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' map.<ref>Official Xbox Magazine, January 2009 Article</ref>

*[[Release]] - A multiplayer map set on a Flood-dominated environment.

*[[Fort Deen (Level)|Fort Deen]] - A multiplayer map set on [[Fort Deen]], [[UNSC]] military base.

*[[Tundra]] - A multiplayer map set on a icy area and has a mega turret in the center with Covenant Energy Barriers surrounding it.

*[[Pirth Outskirts]] - A multiplayer map set on the outskirts of Pirth.

*[[Crevice]]- A multiplayer map set on a Flood-dominated environment.

*[[The Docks]] - A multiplayer map set in the [[Pirth City|city]] of Arcadia.

*[[Labyrinth]] - A multiplayer map set on a open, bridge-like map in a forest environment.

*[[Repository]] - A multiplayer map with a [[Sentinel]] factory in the middle.

*[[Terminal Moraine]] - A multiplayer map set on in an icy environment with two timed Forerunner bridges that provide access to tactically important locations.

*[[Frozen Valley]] - A multiplayer map set in a large, open area of snow with a Forerunner Spire of Healing in the center.

*[[Exile]]<ref>http://www.halowars.com/forums/permalink/451842/454925/ShowThread.aspx#454925</ref> - A multiplayer map set on a Flood-dominated environment.

''Halo Wars'' features a "[[Skirmish|Skirmish Mode]]", where the player can battle on multiplayer maps against an AI opponent in 1vs1, 2vs2 and 3vs3 match. There will be 14 skirmish and [[multiplayer]] maps at launch.<ref>[http://www.halowars.com/]</ref>