| Latest revision |
Your text |
| Line 1: |
Line 1: |
| {{Title|''Okarda'phaa''-pattern plasma rifle}} | | {{Era|HW|FOR|H1|TF|HGN|H2|GOO|H3}} |
| {{Status|Canon}} | | {{HaloWikiLink|Plasma_Rifle}} |
| {{Weapon infobox | | {{Nominated}} |
| |name=''Okarda'phaa''-pattern Rifle
| | {{Weapon |
| |image=[[File:H2A T25DER.png|300px]] | | | image=[[Image:Plasma Rifles.jpg|300px]] |
| |manufacturer=[[Iruiru Armory]]{{Ref/Book|EVG|Page=145|Id=essential}} | | | name=Plasma Rifle |
| |series= | | | manufacturer= |
| |type=[[Directed-energy weapon|Directed-energy rifle]]{{Ref/Site|Id=bnet|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3plasmarifle|Page=Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle|Site=Bungie.net}} | | | model= |
| |cost= | | | type=Rifle |
| |variant={{Pattern|Kewu R'shi'k|plasma rifle}}{{Ref/Site|Id=universe|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/plasma-rifle|Page=Plasma Rifle|Site=Halo Waypoint}} | | | cost= |
| |service=[[War of Beginnings]]<br>[[Human-Covenant War]] <br> [[Great Schism]] <br> [[Blooding Years]] <br> [[Post-Covenant War conflicts]] | | | size=Handheld, Single Handed (Dual Wieldable) |
| |length={{Convert|62.1|cm|in|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|essential}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} | | *length: 66 centimeters |
| |width={{Convert|15.4|cm|in|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} | | *width: 17.8 centimeters |
| |height={{Convert|37.3|cm|in|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
| | *height: 37.9 centimeters |
| |weight={{Convert|5.9|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}
| | | damage per hit=Medium |
| |ammotype=Superheated [[plasma]]{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
| | | magazine=400 charges per energy core per rifle |
| |capacity=
| | | maxammo=400 charges per energy core per rifle |
| |feed=100 battery units
| | | fire=Discontinuous Automatic |
| |operation=
| | | ammotype=Superheated Plasma |
| |rate=Fully automatic (360–540 RPM){{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}
| | | operation= |
| |velocity=126 m/s (413 f/s){{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}
| | | rate of fire=High, 5 rounds per second |
| |optics=
| | | accuracy=Moderate |
| |range={{Convert|50|m|ft}}{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}
| | | range=Short to Medium Range |
| | | era= |
| | | counterpart= |
| | *Human:[[SMG]] |
| | *Brute:[[Type-25 Carbine]] |
| | | counterwep=See [[Plasma_Rifle#Counterweapons|below]]. |
| | | affiliation=[[Covenant]] |
| }} | | }} |
| {{Quote|You know, it looks delicate and so you feel like you need to hold it kinda gingerly—but then you see an [[Sangheili|Elite]] crack a [[Jiralhanae|Bravo Kilo's]] head with one—the things are built tough.|Anonymous UNSC serviceman{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}}}
| | The '''Plasma Rifle''' is a [[Covenant]] ground firearm. |
|
| |
|
| The '''''Okarda'phaa''-pattern Rifle'''{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=290}} {{Type|25|Directed Energy Rifle|DER}},{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}{{Ref/Site|Id=bnet reach|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=ordnance&cid=28439|Page=Halo: Reach - Ordnance - Plasma Rifle|Site=Bungie.net}} more commonly known as the '''plasma rifle''' or '''plasma gun''', is a fully automatic rifle, formerly serving as a [[Covenant]] infantry weapon. The Type-25 DER was the primary weapon of the Covenant's officer corps,{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}} standard issue to [[Sangheili]] and [[Jiralhanae]]. However, lower-caste species within the Covenant who had attained significant rank within the [[Covenant military]] were also issued this weapon during operations. The Type-25 DER was one of the earliest and most frequently encountered Covenant [[plasma]] weapons. It occupies a role very similar to the [[human]] [[assault rifle]].{{Ref/Reuse|bnet reach}}
| | ==Background== |
| | It is a common light weapon in the [[Covenant]] army, primarily wielded by [[Elites]]. The Plasma Rifle uses plasma technology instead of projectile ammunition, firing directed energy bolts. This means that the weapon draws from a power source to generate its energy projectiles rather then firing individual metal projectiles like modern guns. The core power output of these projectiles is 100-150 Kv @ 2-3 dA, and the rate of fire is 420 to 600 rounds per minute.<ref name="Library">[http://library.psyjnir.net/?id=50 Halo Library]</ref> The Plasma Rifle is particularly effective against shielded bipedal opponents. |
|
| |
|
| The earliest iterations of the plasma rifle have been in use by the Sangheili warrior class for several millennia as of the 26th century and were in service long before the Covenant itself was established. Human researchers of the [[UNSC]]'s [[Office of Naval Intelligence]] believe that the plasma rifle's current design dates back at least five hundred years, with only slight modifications made to the rifle over time.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} In the post-[[Human-Covenant War|Covenant War]] era, though, it has been largely phased out for the {{Pattern|Kelos'vaarda|storm rifle}}.{{Ref/Site|Id=LockeLoad|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-locke-load|Page=Canon Fodder - Locke & Load|Site=Halo Waypoint}} | | ===Advantages=== |
| | The Plasma Rifle has a high rate of fire and deals out a good deal of damage. Like other plasma weapons, the Plasma Rifle is effective at depleting [[Shields]], though not as effectively as the [[Plasma Pistol]]s overcharged shot. The Plasma Rifle is also able to be [[Dual Wielding|dual wielded]]. If dual wielded with an [[SMG]] or [[M6]] sidearm, a player can quickly kill any opponent. |
|
| |
|
| ==Overview== | | ===Disadvantages=== |
| ===Design details===
| | The Plasma Rifle's high rate of fire heats the weapon up, and prolonged use will overheat the rifle rendering it useless for a brief period of time.<ref name="Neoseeker">[http://halo.neoseeker.com/halo/PC/pages/plasma_riflea/ Plasma Rifle - Halo - Neoseeker]</ref> It is said that the weapon's power source can be replaced or recharged when depleted, but the [[human]]s in the [[Halo universe]] lack the knowledge to do such things.<ref name="Library"/><ref name="Yahoo!"/> |
| {{Quote|It's got no sight-line, it's awkward to hold, and if it overheats it'll cook the hair right off of your wrists.|Anonymous UNSC serviceman{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}}}
| |
| [[File:Plasma-rifle 02.png|thumb|180px|left|The schematics of a plasma rifle]]
| |
| The Type-25 plasma rifle is a battery-powered [[directed-energy weapon]] that is capable of fully automatic fire.{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}} The two segmented portions of the rifle function as large [[plasma]] generator subassemblies.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} The pair of curved bodies are joined via the trigger guard,{{Ref/Reuse|PLAS2}} creating the rifle's distinctive smooth, streamlined shape.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} The rifle, like most Covenant weapons, is smooth and aerodynamic, almost organic in appearance.<ref name="PLAS2">'''[[Halo: The Cole Protocol]], ''page 110''</ref> The plasma rifle's design has only changed slightly over its centuries of service. The weapon's contemporary design was the result of [[Forerunner]] technology, [[Sangheili]] craftsmanship, and [[San'Shyuum]] artistry.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} The plasma rifle's design was noted to be jawlike, a design that perhaps unconsciously mimicked a Sangheili's mandibles.<ref>'''[[Halo: Broken Circle]]''', ''page 113'' (Google Play edition)</ref>
| |
|
| |
|
| Placed atop one another, the rifle's generators fire in a "stagger" pattern taking the slow automatic fire of each individual collimator and combining it at the charging and accelerator poles. This design allows for a faster rate of fire and more rounds per second. Despite the efficiency of the plasma rifle's design, a significant amount of waste heat is produced by the rifle's generators. As a result, the wielder is forced to fire short, controlled bursts or risk overheating;{{Ref/Reuse|universe}} the latter of which is a tendency of the weapon.<ref name="enc335">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]''', ''page 335'' (2011)</ref> The side of the weapon has a small temperature gauge. This visually informs the wielder how close the weapon is to overheating.{{Ref/Reuse|PLAS2}}
| | Because of this incapability, the [[Master Chief]] and other human users of the Plasma Rifle must abandon it when it is depleted of energy. The ability to play as the Covenant [[Arbiter (character)|Arbiter]] in [[Halo 2]] does not bring with it the ability to recharge the weapon — users must still abandon the weapon when it's out of power.<ref name="Library"/> This weapon appears in both Halo games, although it is changed slightly. |
|
| |
|
| Covenant technology possesses no instrumentality, meaning none of the surface controls or triggers connects in any way [[human]] scientists can understand.<ref>'''[[Halo: Reach]]''', ''[[Dr. Halsey's personal journal]] - November 22nd, 2535''</ref> By late [[2552]], these scientists were awaiting [[Treaty of 2552|treaty]] negotiations with the Sangheili with the aim of receiving specifics of the plasma rifle.{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}{{Ref/Reuse|enc335}}
| | This weapon is also ineffective at fighting the [[Flood]],<ref name="Yahoo!"/> as it takes multiple hits to knock a [[Combat Form]] down. In ''Halo 2'', the Plasma Rifle was slightly underpowered, but it is balanced with faster firing and dual wielding. The Plasma Rifle, like most plasma weapons, is also quite ineffective at finishing off unshielded enemies. |
|
| |
|
| ===Ammunition=== | | ==Campaign Recommendations== |
| [[File:H4 Elite with Sword and Plasma Rifle.jpg|thumb|250px|A [[Sangheili Storm]] wielding a plasma rifle with an energy sword.]] | | In Both [[Halo: Combat Evolved]] and [[Halo 2]], The Plasma Rifle's high rate of fire and moderate damaging can be used to quickly neutralize low level enemies such as [[Grunts]], [[Drones]], and [[Infection Forms]]. Against the [[Elites]] the Plasma Rifle can quickly deplete their [[Elite Personal Energy Shield|Shields]] and leave them vulnerable to a lethal headshot from an [[M6]] pistol or [[Battle Rifle]]. However the Plasma Rifle can be ineffective against some enemies notably the [[Brutes]], [[Hunters]], and Flood [[Combat Form]]s. |
| {{Quote|The Type-25 DER has no recoil to speak of; it tears up shields and you can shoot the thing all day long—it's on the heavy side though.|Anonymous UNSC serviceman{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}}}
| |
| The plasma rifle is a [[directed-energy weapon]] that uses [[plasma|superheated ionized gas]] as ammunition. The weapon's inner workings are comprised of several components, including a power cell that keeps the weapon active, powers the magnetic containment field, and carries out the firing cycle. The weapon has a power output of 100-150 KV @ 2~3 dA, and can fire between 360 and 540 rounds per minute.{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}} Unlike the [[Type-25 plasma pistol]], the plasma rifle is capable of both semi-automatic and full automatic fire.
| |
|
| |
|
| The lethality of the Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle is extreme. Injuries inflicted on a victim are severe third-degree burns, this type of injury destroys the outer layer of skin and the entire layer beneath; the wound is cauterized instantly upon impact.<ref name="plas3">'''Halo: The Cole Protocol''', ''page 130''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]''', ''page 328''</ref> Body fluids would be subjected to flash vaporization, inducing a strain or a shock on the body after impact,<ref>'''[[Halo: The Flood]]''', ''page 22''</ref> fluids trapped in organs or arteries in addition to the rapid expansion of heat would cause ruptures or small explosions causing additional damage to the target. At close range two bursts from the Type-25 DER have enough thermal transfer and kinetic energy to pass through victims with ease,<ref name="plas4">'''Halo: The Cole Protocol''', ''page 129''</ref> close-range impacts can also cause dismemberment of limbs.{{Ref/Reuse|plas3}} Near-misses can also cause injury to the target, as they produce severe burns to the area they pass; this can also cause heat trauma or heat stroke from the extreme temperatures of the bolt.<ref>'''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''', ''page 19''</ref><ref name="reach">'''Halo: The Fall of Reach''', ''page 315''</ref> Should the plasma impact an object, the impact can cause splash damage creating debris, both non-heated and heated, that may come into contact with a target, with a crippling or lethal effect.<ref>'''Halo: The Cole Protocol''', ''page 15''</ref> Generally two hits from a plasma rifle will kill a light-armored or unarmored target.{{Ref/Reuse|plas4}} | | ==Multiplayer Recommendations== |
| | The Plasma Rifle has limited uses in [[Multiplayer]] but is still a useful weapon especially if Dual wielded. Although its range limits the weapon to close quarter fire fights, if used properly a player can quickly dispose of an enemy. It is also advisable to carry a mid to long range weapon such as a [[Battle Rifle]] or [[Sniper Rifle]] for backup against targets outside of the Plasma Rifles range. |
|
| |
|
| ==Variants== | | ==Variations Between the Halo Games== |
| [[File:H2A BrutePlasmaRifle.png|thumb|160px|left|A Jiralhanae plasma rifle]] | | [[Image:Elite minor.jpg|right|thumb|200px| An [[Elite]] wielding its favorite weapon, the Plasma Rifle.]] |
| As with most [[Covenant]] weaponry, modifying the plasma rifle was seen as blasphemous at best, [[List of known Covenant heretics|heretic]]al at worst. This is due to the weapon's incorporation of [[Forerunner]] technology and [[San'Shyuum]] designs. However, a small quantity of plasma rifle variants have been manufactured over the years of its service history. Occasionally, influential clients and heroes of the Covenant—who were considered to be above [[Covenant#Government and politics|Ministry]] sanction—were able to commission Sangheili [[artisan-armorer]]s to produce custom variants of the plasma rifle to suit their needs.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
| | ===''Halo: Combat Evolved''=== |
| | The Plasma Rifle in the original Halo game is far more powerful and accurate than the its Halo 2 counter-part. Furthermore, the weapon held a unique ability to [[stun]] opponents that were hit by the high velocity plasma rounds.<ref name="Yahoo!"/> This effect greatly reduces the victim's ability to move and dodge the incoming projectiles and allows the user to easily hold the opponent in the weapon's firing arc. However, the drawback was that this effect is only felt when the weapon is fired in its automatic mode. While stunned, the weapon will often overheat before the opponent was completely killed. Despite this drawback, the stun ability is a useful and potent feature in the hands of an experienced user. In Campaign mode, the Plasma Rifle is best used against the [[Sentinels]]. It should also be noted that this weapon behaved more like a rifle, having about twice the range of its successor. |
|
| |
|
| One of the most renowned variants of the plasma rifle is the {{Pattern|Kewu R'shi'k|plasma rifle}}. Although most plasma rifles are produced by [[Iruiru Armory]], this variant was manufactured at [[Sacred Promissory]]'s assembly forges on ''[[High Charity]]''. Ordered by the [[Prophet of Truth|High Prophet of Truth]] in preparation for his [[Great Schism|genocide]] against the Sangheili, the variant was modified to tailor to his [[Jiralhanae]] allies' aggressive nature. The rifle was modified to increase the rate of fire and damage. Had it not been for the [[Hierarch]]'s blessing, these modifications to the weapon would have been deemed heretical.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
| | === ''Halo 2'' === |
| | ''Halo 2'''s Plasma Rifle is not as powerful or accurate as its predecessor and lacks the ability to stun. These drawbacks are compensated by the ability to dual wield the weapon, allowing it to be paired with a wide variety of other weapons from ''Halo 2'' and creating powerful combinations. The changes to the weapon are directly related to the inclusion of dual wielding. For purposes of balance, the Plasma Rifle, along with many others from ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', was tweaked to better fit the new game's fighting style. The weapon takes an opponent's shields off with five shots, but it takes many more to kill. This version of the plasma rifle behaves more as a Sub-Machine Gun rather than a rifle. |
|
| |
|
| In [[2535]], during the [[Human-Covenant War]], several plasma rifles were modified by [[Kig-Yar]] for [[human]] use. These variants were again covertly sanctioned by the High Prophet of Truth, who had the Kig-Yar install tracking devices into the weapons with the intent of locating [[Earth]] and other [[human colonies]].<ref name="cp229">'''Halo: The Cole Protocol''', ''pages 229-236''</ref> These rifles featured ammo readouts with human numerals{{Ref/Reuse|PLAS2}} and pop-up sights.<ref name="cp145">'''Halo: The Cole Protocol''', ''pages 145-146''</ref> The Kig-Yar, posing as Covenant deserters, sold these rifles to human [[Insurrectionist]] [[black market]]s in [[the Rubble]].{{Ref/Reuse|cp229}} The plan failed when the weapons were discovered by the [[Prophet of Regret|High Prophet of Regret]] and was declared to be heresy, resulting in the Hierarch ordering [[Sangheili Zealot|Zealots]] to end the weapon modification.{{Ref/Reuse|cp145}}
| | Plasma Rifles are also the basis for several other weapon systems, including the [[Plasma Turret]]s on [[Wraiths]] and [[Ghost (Vehicle)|Ghosts]].<ref name="Library"/> The weapon is not to be confused with the [[Brute Plasma Rifle]], which is red instead of blue. The Brute Plasma Rifle does more damage than the Plasma Rifle and fires at a sigificantly higher rate of fire, but overheats more quickly than its counterpart.<ref name="Neoseeker"/> |
| | | ===''Halo 3''=== |
| == Gameplay ==
| | In ''[[Halo 3]]'', Plasma Rifles are made more powerful. Their bolts are graphically redesigned to be more vivid. The bolts seem to travel faster than those of previous versions, reducing the need to lead the shots at midrange. You will also expect to encounter Brutes using the Plasma Rifle as well. |
| === Advantages ===
| |
| The Plasma Rifle is a close-to-medium-range weapon, and as such can inflict very high damage at that range. The rifle is extremely efficient at killing "soft" targets while doing lethal amounts of damage to a heavily armored target. Enough infantry equipped with Type-25 rifles can halt enemy infantry advance with its ability to deliver harassing suppressive fire; this tactic is also reflected in the Covenant's combat doctrine: destroy enemy morale with harassing fire from distant or hidden snipers and intimate exposure to the alien-ness of their infantry. SPARTAN-IIs and Elites have been observed to be able to dual-wield plasma rifles, doubling their efficiency in close to medium-range combat situations. The Plasma Rifle's high-velocity bolt coupled with its kinetic impact on a target can temporarily stun a target like a SPARTAN-II.
| |
| | |
| === Disadvantages ===
| |
| The Plasma Rifle, when fired continuously, overheats very quickly because of the rapid cycling, loading, ignition, and release sequence of energy; to prevent the weapon from being damaged, the Type-25 DER temporarily shuts down and opens heating vents to allow the excess heat to dissipate before the weapon reactivates. This process leaves the weapon inoperable and useless. Careless infantry who are not aware of the function of the Plasma Rifle can get themselves killed because of this.
| |
| | |
| The rifle has no known methods of restoring its battery ammunition; as such, when the battery is depleted, the rifle must be discarded or replaced. At a 10% charge level, the plasma rifle will begin to misfire, this is due to the power cell's inability to deliver enough energy to start and complete the ignition and release phase of operation, hampering the operator's use of the weapon.
| |
| | |
| Although the Plasma Rifle can strike a target at longer ranges, it is not suited for long-range combat, due to two distinct properties of the weapon's operation. The first is the rate of thermal expansion which is determined by the rate of the bloom of the bolt. The second factor is speed: the faster the bolt goes, the farther the bolt will travel before the magnetic field begins to weaken, causing the temperature of the bolt to cool before the magnetic field becomes unstable and finally dissipates. The bolt also loses velocity and kinetic impact with a longer travel distance.
| |
| | |
| == Changes ==
| |
| === ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' === | |
| [[File:Plasma rifle.png||thumb|250px|The Plasma Rifle as it appears in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.]]
| |
| The Plasma Rifle in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' kills fully-shielded Spartans in 9 shots; the weapon also holds the unique ability to stun opponents hit by a high amount of plasma rounds: this effect greatly reduces the victim's ability to move and dodge the incoming projectiles and allows the user to easily hold the opponent in the weapon's firing arc. However, the drawback was that this effect is only felt with continuous fire. While stunned, the weapon will often overheat before the opponent is killed, especially if it is an Elite or Hunter. Despite this drawback, the stun ability is a useful and potent feature in the hands of an experienced user. Beware that the Plasma Rifle decreases in accuracy while heating up. However, firing in bursts can counteract this and is much more useful over longer ranges. In the campaign, the Plasma Rifle is best used against the [[Sentinels]] and Elites. Fully charged Plasma Rifles can be obtained by killing Elite [[Combat Forms]] or killing Elites riding on {{Pattern|Karo'etba|Ghost}}s and [[Banshee]]s.
| |
| | |
| In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'', the Plasma Rifle utilizes ''Reach''<nowiki />'s design and features remastered audio as well as firing effects. | |
| | |
| ===Changes from ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' to ''Halo 2''===
| |
| [[File:H2 Plasma Rifle.png|thumb|250px|The Plasma Rifle as it appears in ''Halo 2''.]]
| |
| The Plasma Rifle in ''Halo 2'' kills fully-shielded Spartans in 18 shots and lacks the ability to stun. In addition, it is also noticeably less accurate, especially at long range. These drawbacks are compensated by no longer misfiring when on low battery and the ability to dual-wield, allowing it to be paired with a wide variety of other weapons. The changes done to the weapon are directly related to the inclusion of dual-wielding for balancing purposes. The Plasma Rifle, along with many other weapons from ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', has been tweaked to better fit the new game engine. This version of the Plasma Rifle behaves more like an SMG rather than a rifle. The Plasma Rifle now has a new firing sound effect to give it along with other plasma weapons a distinct sound to distinguish it easier. In addition to that a new variant, the [[Kewu R'shi'k-pattern plasma rifle|Brute Plasma Rifle]], is introduced.
| |
| | |
| ===Changes from ''Halo 2'' to ''Halo 3''===
| |
| The Plasma Rifle in ''Halo 3'' is much better at draining energy shields than its ''Halo 2'' counterpart, though it still requires 18 shots to kill a fully-shielded Spartan. Plasma bolts fired by the Plasma Rifle and all other plasma weapons in Halo 3 have been graphically redesigned to have a more vivid look. The bolts travel much faster than from Halo 2, reducing the need to lead the shots at mid-to-long ranges. However, it takes fewer shots of constant fire for the plasma bolts to become very inaccurate. It is considerably harder to come across the Plasma Rifle in the campaign, because of the lack of Elites and the introduction of new Brute weapons such as the [[Paegaas Workshop Spiker|Spiker]].
| |
|
| |
|
| ===Changes from ''Halo 3'' to ''Halo: Reach''=== | | <center> |
| In ''Halo: Reach'' the Plasma Rifle, like the other plasma weapons in the game, has been dramatically redesigned and retooled to function closer to their ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' versions, although in Reach the absence of the stun effect and bonus headshot damage makes it less so. The Plasma Rifle makes a very prominent appearance in the campaign and is wielded by Sangheili, Unggoy and occasionally Kig-Yar. The weapon is available in Forge but is not placed on any multiplayer map by default excluding community maps. This weapon also replaced the [[Needler]] for the [[Armor Lock]] [[loadout]] in [[Elite Slayer]]. The weapon appears to fire faster but still not as fast as the [[Nakata'vho-pattern plasma repeater|Plasma Repeater]]. The weapons animations are far more detailed and are meant to give it a more menacing and dangerous look. Like the Plasma Pistol, the design of the weapon has changed considerably from previous games, The grip has been altered, and appears to be more ergonomic (to Elites at least) and now sports a darker blue color. The Plasma Rifle is the only weapon that is dual-wielded in ''Reach'', with certain Sangheili seen wielding pairs of them in the Campaign and in Firefight.
| | {|style="margin: 0 2em 0em 0em;font-size:85%;" id="toc" |
| | |- |
| | |style="width: 33%;"|[[Image:Plasma-rifle 02.png|100px|center]] |
| | |[[Image:MCwithSMGs.jpg|100px|center]] |
| | |style="width: 33%;"|[[Image:Spikers.jpg|100px|center]] |
| | |- |
| | |colspan=3 style="text-align: center;"|A Plasma Rifle and its counterparts, the [[Human]] [[M7 Caseless Sub Machine Gun|M7 SMG]] and the [[Brute]] [[Type-25 Carbine|Spiker]]. |
| | |} |
| | </center> |
|
| |
|
| ===Changes from ''Halo: Reach'' to ''Halo 2: Anniversary''=== | | ==Counterweapons== |
| *Both plasma rifles in ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' perform nearly identical to their ''Halo 2'' incarnation.
| | {|style="margin: 0 2em 0em 0em;font-size:85%;" align=center> id=toc |
| *It can once again be dual-wielded.
| | !align=center bgcolor=#6699CC colspan=2|'''''Counter-Plasma Rifle Tactics''''' |
| | |- |
| | ||[[Battle Rifle]] or [[Covenant Carbine]]|| While using either of these weapons, strafe back and forth at long range while firing. The longer range of the Battle Rifle or Carbine should be sufficient to neutralize the plasma rifle user, and strafing will help combat the long streams of incoming fire or the occasional plasma grenade. |
| | |- |
| | ||[[Beam Rifle]] or [[Sniper Rifle]] || Although experienced plasma rifle users will retreat to cover if they detect a sniper, it is easy to pick off unwary hostiles from long range in open cover, or to "kill-steal" while a teammate or enemy engages the plasma rifle user. |
| | |- |
| | ||[[Energy Sword]] or [[Shotgun]] || While the plasma rifle may seem ineffectual to close range specialists, you must be wary of the [[plasma grenade]]s that may adhere to and destroy you. The best tactic is to move in close, as the stress of battle will negate the threat of these grenades. Engagement at medium-close ranges can lead to a deadly plasma firefight that could possibly kill the inexperienced sword-wielder. |
| | |- |
| | ||[[M6D Pistol]] || In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' only, the M6D is one of the most powerful weapons, and can successfully counter. |
| | |} |
|
| |
|
| ===Changes from ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' to ''Halo 5: Guardians''=== | | ==Character Compatibility== |
| *The plasma rifle is absent while the Brute plasma rifle is included.
| |
| *It uses 1% battery every 3.2 shots and overheats every 16 shots nonstop.
| |
| *It cannot be dual-wielded.
| |
| *Rate of fire is approximately 600 rounds per minute.
| |
| *Range and damage are significantly increased.
| |
| *The Smart-scope mechanic has been added.
| |
|
| |
|
| ==Non-canon and dubious canon appearances==
| | *[[Elites]] |
| ===Silver Timeline===
| | *[[Spartans]] |
| {{Notice/Silver|category=no}}
| | *[[Brutes]] |
| Plasma rifles are used by the Covenant against humanity.{{Ref/YouTube|Id=HTVOT|5KZ3MKraNKY|Paramount+|Halo The Series (2022) Official Trailer|Y=2022|M=1|D=30}}
| | *[[Grunts]] |
| | *[[Jackals]] |
| | *[[Marines]] |
| | *[[Drones]] (have animation but not used) |
| | *[[Flood]] [[Combat Form|Combat Form (Human)]] |
| | *[[Flood]] [[Combat Form|Combat Form (Elite)]] |
|
| |
|
| ==Trivia== | | ==Laser Tag== |
| {{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes}} | | {{main|Halo 3 Replica Guns}} |
| *In the ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' instruction booklet there is a Plasma Rifle picture over a picture of the [[Needler]].
| | In July 2007, it was announced that there is going to be a Halo laser tag game released, with a Plasma Rifle designed to actual proportions to look like it does in Halo 3. |
| *In ''Halo: Combat Evolved,'' the Plasma rifle and the Plasma Pistol use the same sound file.
| |
| *In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the Plasma Rifle has 2 shots per 1% charge, totalling 200 shots. In ''Halo 2'' and ''3'', it has 4, totalling 400 shots.
| |
| *In ''Halo 2'', the Brutes normally wield the Brute Plasma Rifle, except in the level "[[The Great Journey (Level)|The Great Journey]]", where Brutes driving vehicles will be found wielding the normal Plasma Rifle. Also in the level "[[Sacred Icon (level)|Sacred Icon]]", a few dead Brutes have Plasma Rifles beside their corpses.
| |
| *In ''Halo 2'', when playing as the Arbiter, allies wielding Plasma Rifle have the weapon in "overheat" mode.
| |
| *If the player remains idle for a while in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the in-game character will inspect the weapon on both sides; in ''Halo 2'', they will open the cooling vents; in ''Halo 3'', they will pull on the top.
| |
| *In ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', Plasma Rifles are one of the few weapons which have a reticule that never changes size.
| |
| *In the Original Trilogy, the Plasma Rifle's UNSC counterpart seems to be the MA5B ICWS or the [[M7 Caseless Submachine Gun]]. However, in ''Halo: Reach'', the way a Spartan or Sangheili wield the Plasma rifle is identical when wielding an [[M6G magnum]], even with [[alert carry]], which implies that the Plasma rifle's counterpart is also the M6G Magnum.
| |
| *In ''[[Halo 4]]'', the plasma rifle is replaced by the functionally similar [[Kelos'vaarda-pattern storm rifle|storm rifle]] which also fills a similar in-game role. This marks the first ''Halo'' game in which the plasma rifle is not present in gameplay; however, the weapon appears briefly in the [[Prologue]] cinematic. It also appears in the DLC map [[Pitfall]] as part of the Elite targeting silhouettes.
| |
| *Until late in the development of [[Halo: Combat Evolved]] (May 16, 2001), the Plasma Rifle and the [[Type-25 plasma pistol|Plasma Pistol]] had their functions switched completely. The Plasma Rifle's model had the overcharge function and lowered rate of fire. The converse is true for the Plasma Pistol.<ref>http://bs.bungie.org/fanfestv/</ref><ref>https://youtu.be/zvb3-tXttoY?t=365</ref>
| |
| *The plasma rifle was the first weapon conceptualized by [[Shi Kai Wang]].<ref>https://twitter.com/shiekthegeek/status/1351703739371909121</ref> It was designed to be symmetrical in order to fit with the two opposable thumbs of an Elite's hand.<ref>https://twitter.com/shiekthegeek/status/1351703743205502977</ref> The "fins" on the back of the weapon were intended to be ammunition magazines or batteries that needed to be plugged in to shoot it, but it was considered too difficult to animate and convey the mechanic in first-person, so they were left as simple detailing.<ref>https://twitter.com/shiekthegeek/status/1351703748960157696</ref>
| |
|
| |
|
| ==Gallery== | | ==Images== |
| ===Concept art and illustrations===
| |
| <gallery>
| |
| File:HCE_PlasmaRifle_Concept.jpg|Concept art of the Plasma Rifle in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
| |
| File:Fight on Ascendant Justice.png|John-117 firing a plasma rifle in ''[[Halo: First Strike]]''.
| |
| File:Prototype PlasmaRifle Concept.png|Concept art of the plasma rifle for ''[[Halo Legends]], [[Prototype]]''.
| |
| File:Homecoming PlasmaRifle Concept.png|Concept art of the plasma rifle for ''Halo Legends, [[Homecoming]]''.
| |
| File:Battle for Epsilon Expanse.png|A Sangheili Minors wielding a plasma rifle in ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''.
| |
| File:Halo Legacy of Onyx cover.png|[[Molly Patel]] with a plasma rifle in ''[[Halo: Legacy of Onyx]]''.
| |
| </gallery>
| |
| ===''Halo: Combat Evolved''===
| |
| <gallery>
| |
| File:PXH MacworldElites Screenshot 2.jpg|A Sangheili firing a plasma rifle during early stage of development.
| |
| File:HCE EliteEarlyPlasmaRifle Screenshot.jpg|A Sangheili Minor wielding a plasma rifle during development.
| |
| File:HE32000-elitemajor2man.png|A Sangheili Major wielding a plasma rifle in the [[Halo announcement trailer|announcement trailer]].
| |
| File:HCE - Majors.png|Three Sangheili Majors wielding plasma rifles.
| |
| File:SpecOpsElite.jpg|A [[Special Operations Sangheili]] holding a plasma rifle.
| |
| File:HCE-T25PlasmaRifleSide.png|Profile view in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', PC version, with the standard blue color scheme due to missing/corrupted shaders.
| |
| File:PlasmaRifle-HaloCE.png|A profile view in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', Mac version, with a green color scheme due to missing/corrupted shaders.
| |
| File:HCE-PlasmaRifle-FirstPerson.jpg|First-person view of the plasma rifle.
| |
| File:Overheat.png|First-person view of the plasma rifle overheating.
| |
| File:HTMCC-HCE-BPR.png|A plasma rifle with the Brutal skin in ''Halo: The Master Chief Collection''.
| |
| </gallery>
| |
| ===''Halo 2''===
| |
| <gallery> | | <gallery> |
| File:PlasmaRifle-H2.png|In-game profile view of the plasma rifle.
| | Image:Halo-3-20070701114858951.jpg|A [[Spartan-II|Spartan]] [[Dual wielding]] Plasma Rifles. |
| File:H2 EliteRanger Cairo.jpg|A [[Sangheili Ranger]] firing a plasma rifle.
| | Image:1179041973.jpg|In [[Halo 3]], the Plasma Rifle is much more detailed and powerful. |
| File:H2 Uplift InteriorBattle.jpg|A Spartan dual-wielding plasma rifles in multiplayer.
| |
| File:H2-PlasmaRifleHUD.jpg|First-person view of the plasma rifle.
| |
| File:HAV.jpg|First-person view of a player dual-wielding plasma rifles on [[Midship]].
| |
| File:H2V Compare.png|A comparison between the standard plasma rifle and the {{Pattern|Kewu R'shi'k|plasma rifle}}.
| |
| </gallery>
| |
| ===''Halo 3''===
| |
| <gallery>
| |
| File:Halo3-Snowbound-FirstPerson-PlasmaRifles.jpg|First-person view of a player dual-wielding plasma rifles in the [[Halo 3 Beta|''Halo 3'' Beta]].
| |
| File:Plasmarifle.jpg|Promotional image of the plasma rifle.
| |
| File:H3-PlasmaRifle.png|An in-game profile view of the plasma rifle.
| |
| File:H3 Elite Majors.jpg|A [[Sangheili Major]] with a plasma rifle.
| |
| File:H3 TheArk BruteStalkers.jpg|A [[Jiralhanae Stalker]] with a plasma rifle.
| |
| File:HTMCC-H3 DualWieldingDuo.png|Thel 'Vadam and John-117 dual-wielding plasma rifles.
| |
| File:Halo-3-20070923023654130.jpg|First-person view of a player dual-wielding plasma rifles in the campaign.
| |
| File:H3 DLC Foundry 1stPerson01.jpg|First-person view of a player wielding a plasma rifle on multiplayer map [[Foundry]].
| |
| File:Halo-3-20070701114858951.jpg|A SPARTAN-II wielding two plasma rifles.
| |
| File:H3 Plasma Rifle shot.jpg|A plasma bolt from a plasma rifle mid-flight.
| |
| File:H3 PlasmaRifles Comparison FP.jpg|A comparison between the standard plasma rifle and the {{Pattern|Kewu R'shi'k|plasma rifle}} in ''Halo: The Master Chief Collection''.
| |
| </gallery>
| |
| ===''Halo: Reach''===
| |
| <gallery>
| |
| File:HR EliteMinor Concept 5.png|Concept art of a Sangheili Minor dual-wielding plasma rifles.
| |
| File:Plasmarifle.png|A [[Halo: Reach Beta|''Halo Reach'' Beta]] render of the plasma rifle, showing a red-purple hue reminiscent of the ''Halo 3'' version. This is not present in the final game.
| |
| File:HaloReach-PlasmaRifleSide.png|The plasma rifle in ''[[Halo: Reach]]''.
| |
| File:Plasma Rifle turnarounds.jpg|Turnaround reference of the plasma rifle.
| |
| File:HR - Officer Sangheili with Plasma Rifle.png|A Sangheili Officer with a plasma rifle.
| |
| File:HTMCC-HR PlasmaRifleSupplyCase.png|A supply case of plasma rifles.
| |
| File:HTMCC-HR GruntHeavyTrio&PR.png|Three [[Unggoy Heavy]] wielding plasma rifles.
| |
| File:BOB2.jpg|A [[BOB]] dual-wielding plasma rifles.
| |
| File:Dual wield.jpeg|A [[Sangheili Zealot]] dual-wielding plasma rifles.
| |
| File:HR-PlasmaRifleHUD.png|First-person view of the plasma rifle.
| |
| </gallery>
| |
| ===''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary''===
| |
| <gallery>
| |
| File:HCEA-SangheiliShieldsFlicker.jpg|A Sangheili Minor with a plasma rifle.
| |
| File:HCEA-TNR-PR-FirstPerson.png|First-person view of the plasma rifle in the trailer.
| |
| File:HCEA-PlasmaRifleHUD.png|HUD of the plasma rifle of the plasma rifle.
| |
| </gallery>
| |
| ===''Halo 2: Anniversary''===
| |
| <gallery>
| |
| File:H2A - Arbiter & Swords.png|Three Sangheili Majors prepare their plasma rifles in the Prologue.
| |
| File:H2AMLGSpecopsElite.png|A [[Special Operations Sangheili]] dual-wielding plasma rifles in campaign.
| |
| File:H2Aterm-SesaPlasmaRifle.jpg|[[Sesa 'Refumee]] disengages a plasma rifle's outer coverings, exposing the weapon's inner workings.
| |
| File:H2A-Marinewithplasmarifle.png|A marine with a plasma rifle in campaign.
| |
| File:H2A-Brutes vs Elites.jpg|Sangheili and Jiralhanae firing plasma rifles at each other in campaign.
| |
| File:H2ACP-PlasmaRifleHUD.png|First-person view of the plasma rifle in campaign.
| |
| File:H2ACP-PlasmaRifleDualWieldHUD.png|First-person view while dual-wielding in campaign.
| |
| File:H2AMP-PlasmaRifleHUD.png|First-person view of the plasma rifle in multiplayer.
| |
| File:H2AMP-PlasmaRifle.png|A Spartan using a plasma rifle on [[Stonetown]] in multiplayer.
| |
| File:H2AMP-PlasmaRifleDualWieldHUD.png|First-person view while dual-wielding in multiplayer.
| |
| File:H2AMP-PlasmaRifleDualWield.png|A Spartan dual-wielding plasma rifles in multiplayer.
| |
| File:H2AMP-PR&BPRDualWieldHUD.png|A visual comparison between the standard plasma rifle and the Brute plasma rifle in multiplayer.
| |
| </gallery> | | </gallery> |
|
| |
| ===''Halo Online''===
| |
| <gallery>
| |
| File:HO-Plasma Rifle.png|A plasma rifle in ''[[Halo Online]]''.
| |
| File:Plasma Rifle - Basic.jpg|The basic iteration of the plasma rifle in ''Halo Online''.
| |
| File:Plasma Rifle - Power.jpg|The power iteration of the plasma rifle, seen on [[Diamondback]].
| |
| </gallery>
| |
| ===''Halo: The Television Series''===
| |
| <gallery>
| |
| File:HTV-Contact-Sangheili.jpg|A group of Sangheili using plasma rifles on [[Madrigal]].
| |
| File:HTV-elite minor.jpg|A Sangheili firing a plasma rifle on Madrigal.
| |
| File:HTV-Contact-Ouch.png|An [[Insurrectionist]] is killed by a plasma rifle on Madrigal.
| |
| </gallery>
| |
|
| |
| ==List of appearances==
| |
| {{col-begin}}
| |
| {{col-2}}
| |
| *''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
| |
| *''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo 2]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
| |
| **''[[The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo 3]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: The Cole Protocol]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo Wars: Genesis]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo Wars]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Helljumper]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'' {{MCCo}}
| |
| *''[[Halo Legends]]''
| |
| **''[[The Duel]]''
| |
| **''[[Homecoming]]''
| |
| **''[[Origins]]''
| |
| **''[[Prototype]]''
| |
| **''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
| |
| **''[[Headhunters (short story)|Headhunters]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
| |
| *''[[Remember Reach]]''
| |
| **''[[Deliver Hope]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Reach]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Glasslands]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
| |
| **''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Covenant|Covenant]]''
| |
| **''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: The Thursday War]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo 4]]'' {{c|[[Prologue]] only}}
| |
| {{col-2}}
| |
| *''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Mortal Dictata]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Broken Circle]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
| |
| **''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Last Light]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'' {{C|Sticker only}}
| |
| *''[[Halo: Ground Command]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo Mythos]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Envoy]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Legacy of Onyx]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Collateral Damage]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Battle Born]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Outpost Discovery]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Oblivion]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Meridian Divide]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Shadows of Reach]]''{{Ref/Novel|Id=SOR19|HSoR|Chapter=19}}
| |
| **''[[Sacrifice]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Point of Light]]''{{Ref/Novel|Id=POL15|POL|Chapter=15}}
| |
| *''[[Halo: Divine Wind]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: The Television Series Season One]]''
| |
| **''[[Contact]]''
| |
| **''[[Homecoming (TV Series)|Homecoming]]''
| |
| **''[[Reckoning]]''
| |
| **''[[Transcendence]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: The Rubicon Protocol]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Outcasts]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: The Television Series Season Two]]''
| |
| **''[[Halo (TV Series)|Halo]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Age of Retribution]]''
| |
| *''[[Halo: Flashpoint]]''
| |
| {{col-end}}
| |
|
| |
|
| ==Sources== | | ==Sources== |
| {{Ref/Sources}}
| | <references/> |
| | | {{WepList}} |
| {{Covenant rifles}} | | [[Category:The Covenant]] |
| [[Category:Covenant infantry weapons]] | | [[Category:Held Weapons]] |
| [[Category:Infantry plasma weapons]] | | [[Category:Weapons]] |
| | [[Category:Covenant Weapons]] |
