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{{Era|Forerunner}}
{{Status|Canon}}
[[File:Forerunner forms.png|400px|thumb|Various types of Forerunner armor.]]
[[File:Forerunner forms.png|400px|thumb|Various types of Forerunner armor.]]
'''Personal armor''',<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''pages 71, 78, 126''</ref> most often simply referred to as '''armor''', was a [[Forerunner]] suit of body-assist armor designed to be worn by individuals throughout their lives.<ref name="c13">'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 13''</ref> Fulfilling a broad variety of roles encompassing from a highly advanced protective suit and neurally-integrated computer system to an article of everyday clothing, personal armor was a central item of Forerunner culture. The armor protected its user both physically and medically, augmented their memory and perception and granted them immediate access to vast amounts of information. With its advanced medical conveniences, it was the primary reason for the Forerunners' virtually indefinite lifespans. In addition, the design and outward appearance of one's armor was a conspicuous indicator of their status in the exceedingly hierarchical Forerunner society. Armor suits specifically designed for combat were known as [[combat skin]]s.<ref>'''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''', campaign level ''[[The Library]]''</ref>
'''Personal armor''',<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''pages 71, 78, 126''</ref> most often simply referred to as '''armor''', was a [[Forerunner]] suit of body-assist armor designed to be worn by individuals throughout their lives.<ref name="c13">'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 13''</ref> Fulfilling a broad variety of roles encompassing from a highly advanced protective suit and neurally-integrated computer system to an article of everyday clothing, personal armor was a central item of Forerunner culture. The armor protected its user both physically and medically, augmented their memory and perception and granted them immediate access to vast amounts of information. With its advanced medical conveniences, it was the primary reason for the Forerunners' virtually indefinite lifespans. In addition, the design and outward appearance of one's armor was a conspicuous indicator of their status in the exceedingly hierarchical Forerunner society. Armor suits specifically designed for combat were known as [[combat skin]]s.<ref>'''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''', campaign level ''[[The Library]]''</ref>
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==Description==
==Description==
[[File:H4 - Lifeworkers.jpg|thumb|300px|Two armor-clad [[Lifeworker]]s.]]
[[File:H4 - Lifeworkers.jpg|thumb|300px|Two armor-clad [[Lifeworker]]s.]]
A suit of personal armor typically had smoothly curved features, with sections of physical armor plating laid over an inner shell of [[hard light]]. The luminous hard light shell, visible through gaps between the armor plates, outlined the wearer in a series of trim-lines.<ref name="sil21">'''Halo: Silentium''', ''pages 21-22''</ref> Armor could also change its shape to an extent based on the occasion, be it everyday use, combat or defense, or ceremony.<ref name="sil26">'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 26''</ref><ref>'''Rebirth'''</ref> Component-wise, a typical suit of armor consisted of several ribbon-like sections of torso armor,<ref name="c71">'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 71''</ref><ref name="c107">'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 107''</ref> shoulder and arm guards, leg guards and boots.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 18''</ref> The helmet typically left the wearer's face visible under an adjustable film of energy,<ref name="c116">'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''pages 116, 121''</ref> while the edges of the helmet itself outlined the facial features.<ref name="c107"/> In some cases, the hands were covered by a similar wrap of energy.<ref name="c116"/>
A suit of personal armor typically had smoothly curved features, with sections of physical armor plating laid over an inner shell of [[hard light]]. The luminous hard light shell, visible through gaps between the armor plates, outlined the wearer in a series of trim-lines.<ref name="sil21">'''Halo: Silentium''', ''pages 21-22''</ref> Armor could also change its shape to an extent based on the occasion, be it everyday use, combat or defense, or ceremony.<ref name="sil26">'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 26''</ref><ref>'''Rebirth'''</ref> Component-wise, a typical suit of armor consisted of several ribbon-like sections of torso armor,<ref name="c71">'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 71''</ref><ref name="c107">'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 107''</ref> shoulder and arm guards, leg guards and boots.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 18''</ref> The helmet typically left the wearer's face visible under an adjustable film of energy,<ref name="c116">'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''pages 116, 121''</ref> while the edges of the helmet itself outlined the facial features.{{Ref/Reuse|c107}} In some cases, the hands were covered by a similar wrap of energy.{{Ref/Reuse|c116}}


Armor also served as an outward reflection of a Forerunner's state of mind. The color of the hard light cocoon changed based on the wearer's mood; for example, a dark shade expressed displeasure.<ref name="sil21"/> If the armor detected danger, it would automatically take on a defensive mode.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 90''</ref> If the wearer was excited or upset, the armor's inner glow would intensify and the armor might even visibly ripple and the plating would bulk up,<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 119''</ref><ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 287''</ref> as if preparing for an attack. This was especially apparent in [[Warrior-Servant]] armor which would become thicker and more robust in preparation for battle.<ref name="sil26"/> Similarly, deep distress or anguish would cause an armor's outward posture to slouch.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 251''</ref>
Armor also served as an outward reflection of a Forerunner's state of mind. The color of the hard light cocoon changed based on the wearer's mood; for example, a dark shade expressed displeasure.{{Ref/Reuse|sil21}} If the armor detected danger, it would automatically take on a defensive mode.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 90''</ref> If the wearer was excited or upset, the armor's inner glow would intensify and the armor might even visibly ripple and the plating would bulk up,<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 119''</ref><ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 287''</ref> as if preparing for an attack. This was especially apparent in [[Warrior-Servant]] armor which would become thicker and more robust in preparation for battle.{{Ref/Reuse|sil26}} Similarly, deep distress or anguish would cause an armor's outward posture to slouch.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 251''</ref>


Forerunner armor was colored according to one's [[rate]] and position. Typically, their primary coloration varied from white or light gray to black, with the color of the trim-lines ranging from white to various colors.<ref name="c107"/> For example, [[Ecumene Council|Council advisors]] wore black armor with green highlights, while the armor worn by [[Council security]] was colored black and red.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 256''</ref> The armor worn by [[IsoDidact|Bornstellar Makes Eternal Lasting]] as a [[Manipular]] was primarily colored silver-gray, with white and green trim-lines.<ref name="c107"/> The lavishness and overall decoration of Forerunner armor varied between rates; higher rates, such as [[Builder]]s, wore more ornate armor than [[Warrior-Servant]]s, who stood lower in the hierarchy.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 81-82''</ref>
Forerunner armor was colored according to one's [[rate]] and position. Typically, their primary coloration varied from white or light gray to black, with the color of the trim-lines ranging from white to various colors.{{Ref/Reuse|c107}} For example, [[Ecumene Council|Council advisors]] wore black armor with green highlights, while the armor worn by [[Council security]] was colored black and red.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 256''</ref> The armor worn by [[IsoDidact|Bornstellar Makes Eternal Lasting]] as a [[Manipular]] was primarily colored silver-gray, with white and green trim-lines.{{Ref/Reuse|c107}} The lavishness and overall decoration of Forerunner armor varied between rates; higher rates, such as [[Builder]]s, wore more ornate armor than [[Warrior-Servant]]s, who stood lower in the hierarchy.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 81-82''</ref>


Forerunner ships were often equipped with facilities capable of producing suits of armor at will, using small [[engineering unit]]s, some barely visible, to "grow" the armor around the user.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 106''</ref> The suits were also adaptable, and could be constructed to fit any other species, including the various species of [[human]]s. The appearance of the suit's ancilla would also be modeled according to the user's species.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 108''</ref> Due to its inner layer being composed of hard light, sets of Forerunner armor were very malleable and capable of adapting to different physical builds and attributes. For example, the [[Ur-Didact]] was able to use the armor of the female [[Builder]], [[Maker-of-Moons]].<ref name="s108">'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 108''</ref> "Condensed combat wraps" stored aboard warships could also adapt a normal suit of armor to function as a combat skin.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 126''</ref>
Forerunner ships were often equipped with facilities capable of producing suits of armor at will, using small [[engineering unit]]s, some barely visible, to "grow" the armor around the user.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 106''</ref> The suits were also adaptable, and could be constructed to fit any other species, including the various species of [[human]]s. The appearance of the suit's ancilla would also be modeled according to the user's species.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 108''</ref> Due to its inner layer being composed of hard light, sets of Forerunner armor were very malleable and capable of adapting to different physical builds and attributes. For example, the [[Ur-Didact]] was able to use the armor of the female [[Builder]], [[Maker-of-Moons]].<ref name="s108">'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 108''</ref> "Condensed combat wraps" stored aboard warships could also adapt a normal suit of armor to function as a combat skin.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 126''</ref>


Forerunners wore personal armor almost invariably on everyday occasions, although conventional garments would be temporarily donned in certain instances, including routine replenishment, repair, cleaning and checks performed on the armor while a Forerunner stayed in the safety of their residence or a ship, for example.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 247''</ref><ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 197''</ref> Armor would also have to be removed for the ritual involved with [[Forerunner mutation|mutation]].<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 148''</ref> When removed, a suit of armor would automatically unwind from the wearer's body and fold itself into a compact bundle for storage.<ref name="s108"/>
Forerunners wore personal armor almost invariably on everyday occasions, although conventional garments would be temporarily donned in certain instances, including routine replenishment, repair, cleaning and checks performed on the armor while a Forerunner stayed in the safety of their residence or a ship, for example.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 247''</ref><ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 197''</ref> Armor would also have to be removed for the ritual involved with [[Forerunner mutation|mutation]].<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 148''</ref> When removed, a suit of armor would automatically unwind from the wearer's body and fold itself into a compact bundle for storage.{{Ref/Reuse|s108}}


==Capabilities and effects==
==Capabilities and effects==
[[File:Masterbuilder.png|thumb|300px|The armor worn by [[Faber]], the [[Master Builder]].]]
[[File:HTMCC-H4 Terminals MasterBuilder.png|thumb|300px|The armor worn by [[Faber]], the [[Master Builder]].]]
Forerunner armor suits were equipped with [[ancilla]]s, personal [[artificial intelligence]] constructs which interfaced directly with the wearer's mind. The ancilla stored and collated information recorded by the armor and the wearer's own sensory data, which could both be accessed later, significantly enhancing a Forerunner's already accurate memory.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 41''</ref> In addition to their own stores of knowledge, a personal ancilla could connect to a network, such as that of a starship, and provide information for the wearer at will. However, the information one could access was limited based on their position.<ref name="c107"/> Personal armor also allowed mature Forerunners to connect to the [[Domain]].<ref name="c13"/> Armor also acted as a sophisticated mind-machine interface; for example, individuals could [[astrogation|navigate]] a starship via their armor, sometimes with more than one Forerunner linked to one another in synchrony.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 70''</ref>
Forerunner armor suits were equipped with [[ancilla]]s, personal [[artificial intelligence]] constructs which interfaced directly with the wearer's mind. The ancilla stored and collated information recorded by the armor and the wearer's own sensory data, which could both be accessed later, significantly enhancing a Forerunner's already accurate memory.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 41''</ref> In addition to their own stores of knowledge, a personal ancilla could connect to a network, such as that of a starship, and provide information for the wearer at will. However, the information one could access was limited based on their position.{{Ref/Reuse|c107}} Personal armor also allowed mature Forerunners to connect to the [[Domain]].{{Ref/Reuse|c13}} Armor also acted as a sophisticated mind-machine interface; for example, individuals could [[astrogation|navigate]] a starship via their armor, sometimes with more than one Forerunner linked to one another in synchrony.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 70''</ref>


The armor eliminated a Forerunner's natural need to sleep, artificially managing the functions normally taken care of by sleeping and allowing a constant continuity of consciousness without side effects. This gave Forerunners more time for their daily activities and meditation.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 241''</ref> Forerunners did still rarely experience diagnostic waking dreams induced by the armor for "housekeeping" purposes.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 150''</ref> The armor was integrated with the wearer's mind to the point that in cases of psychologically harmful experiences, the armor could selectively purge specific memories. In the event of extreme mental damage, the armor could "reset" the owner's brain to a stable state. However, this process could potentially result in complications.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 161''</ref>
The armor eliminated a Forerunner's natural need to sleep, artificially managing the functions normally taken care of by sleeping and allowing a constant continuity of consciousness without side effects. This gave Forerunners more time for their daily activities and meditation.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 241''</ref> Forerunners did still rarely experience diagnostic waking dreams induced by the armor for "housekeeping" purposes.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 150''</ref> The armor was integrated with the wearer's mind to the point that in cases of psychologically harmful experiences, the armor could selectively purge specific memories. In the event of extreme mental damage, the armor could "reset" the owner's brain to a stable state. However, this process could potentially result in complications.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 161''</ref>
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Forerunners could transfer enormous amounts of information to one another through the armor at the touch of each other's fingertips,<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 140''</ref> and could engage in secure "silent conversation" by linking hands.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 24''</ref> Forerunners of higher forms, namely [[Promethean]] commanders, were capable simultaneously processing the collective sensory experience of thousands of individuals, relayed through their armor.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 162''</ref> The armor's sensor equipment greatly amplified a Forerunner's senses, and could even substitute natural vision altogether, such as in the case of [[Bitterness-of-the-Vanquished]], who, despite her blindness, received visual sensory input from her armor.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 247''</ref>
Forerunners could transfer enormous amounts of information to one another through the armor at the touch of each other's fingertips,<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 140''</ref> and could engage in secure "silent conversation" by linking hands.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 24''</ref> Forerunners of higher forms, namely [[Promethean]] commanders, were capable simultaneously processing the collective sensory experience of thousands of individuals, relayed through their armor.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 162''</ref> The armor's sensor equipment greatly amplified a Forerunner's senses, and could even substitute natural vision altogether, such as in the case of [[Bitterness-of-the-Vanquished]], who, despite her blindness, received visual sensory input from her armor.<ref>'''Halo: Silentium''', ''page 247''</ref>


Personal armor granted its wearer immunity to most diseases. In emergency situations, the armor could suspend its user until they were rescued, and even provide nourishment for a time.<ref name="c13"/> Most Forerunner armor was capable of keeping the wearer alive for years without outside influences.<ref name="c71"/> If operational, the armor would also preserve the wearer's body after death.<ref>'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 52''</ref> Impressions of the wearer's consciousness were also stored in the armor in the rare event of death; traditionally, this [[mind transfer|essence]] would be placed into a [[timelock]]ed [[Durance]].<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''pages 47-48''</ref> Forerunner armor also served as a [[powered exoskeleton]], assisting or enhancing the wearer's movement.<ref name="p218">'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 218''</ref> Personal armor was sealed against vacuum or the lack of atmosphere.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 116''</ref> Most if not all Forerunner armor possessed [[N-barrier]]s and a system involving lenses to protect the user from harm.<ref>'''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''', "[[Soma the Painter]]"</ref>
Personal armor granted its wearer immunity to most diseases. In emergency situations, the armor could suspend its user until they were rescued, and even provide nourishment for a time.{{Ref/Reuse|c13}} Most Forerunner armor was capable of keeping the wearer alive for years without outside influences.{{Ref/Reuse|c71}} If operational, the armor would also preserve the wearer's body after death.<ref>'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 52''</ref> Impressions of the wearer's consciousness were also stored in the armor in the rare event of death; traditionally, this [[mind transfer|essence]] would be placed into a [[timelock]]ed [[Durance]].<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''pages 47-48''</ref> Forerunner armor also served as a [[powered exoskeleton]], assisting or enhancing the wearer's movement.<ref name="p218">'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 218''</ref> Personal armor was sealed against vacuum or the lack of atmosphere.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 116''</ref> Most if not all Forerunner armor possessed [[N-barrier]]s and a system involving lenses to protect the user from harm.<ref>'''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''', "[[Soma the Painter]]"</ref>


In some cases, personal armor could be configured to make its wearer hover some distance over the ground as opposed to walking. [[Lifeworker]]s and [[Warrior-Servant]]s have been observed using this capability.<ref>'''Halo 4''', ''[[Terminal (Halo 4)|Terminals]]''</ref> The specific features contained by a Forerunner's armor also varied according to their rate and task; for example, Lifeworker armor contained a wide array of equipment related to medicine and biological research,<ref name="sil21"/> while armor used by Warrior-Servants was designed with combat and warfare in mind.<ref name="sil26"/> One notable attribute of Warrior armor was its ability to attune itself to specific forms of attack.<ref>'''Halo: Escalation''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 10|Issue 10]]''</ref>
In some cases, personal armor could be configured to make its wearer hover some distance over the ground as opposed to walking. [[Lifeworker]]s and [[Warrior-Servant]]s have been observed using this capability.<ref>'''Halo 4''', ''[[Terminal (Halo 4)|Terminals]]''</ref> The specific features contained by a Forerunner's armor also varied according to their rate and task; for example, Lifeworker armor contained a wide array of equipment related to medicine and biological research,{{Ref/Reuse|sil21}} while armor used by Warrior-Servants was designed with combat and warfare in mind.{{Ref/Reuse|sil26}} One notable attribute of Warrior armor was its ability to attune itself to specific forms of attack.<ref>'''Halo: Escalation''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 10|Issue 10]]''</ref>


Though the body armor provided the user with certain advantages, it also caused the user to lose sensitivity to the world around them. For example, when [[Bornstellar Makes Eternal Lasting]] decided to remove his body armor on [[Earth]], he found himself exceedingly vulnerable; a simple touch from [[Chakas]] caused a strong reaction. Since Forerunners also relied on the armor to keep track of minute details in their surroundings, supposedly allowing them to occupy their minds with more sophisticated thoughts, a Forerunner deprived of their armor might find their powers of observation significantly reduced, particularly in an unfamiliar environment.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 78''</ref>
Though the body armor provided the user with certain advantages, it also caused the user to lose sensitivity to the world around them. For example, when [[Bornstellar Makes Eternal Lasting]] decided to remove his body armor on [[Earth]], he found himself exceedingly vulnerable; a simple touch from [[Chakas]] caused a strong reaction. Since Forerunners also relied on the armor to keep track of minute details in their surroundings, supposedly allowing them to occupy their minds with more sophisticated thoughts, a Forerunner deprived of their armor might find their powers of observation significantly reduced, particularly in an unfamiliar environment.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 78''</ref>


==Countermeasures==
==Countermeasures==
The Forerunners also developed various countermeasures to be used against personal armor. Small automatons known as [[armor cracking unit]]s were specifically designed to break through armor.<ref>'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 13''</ref> Programs known as [[artificial intelligence suppressor|AI suppressors]] could deactivate a suit's ancilla, allowing the attacker to take control of the armor itself.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 194''</ref> Powerful ancillas, such as [[Mendicant Bias]], were capable of overriding personal armor and even using it to crush the wearer.<ref name="p218"/><ref>'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 186''</ref>
The Forerunners also developed various countermeasures to be used against personal armor. Small automatons known as [[armor cracking unit]]s were specifically designed to break through armor.<ref>'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 13''</ref> Programs known as [[artificial intelligence suppressor|AI suppressors]] could deactivate a suit's ancilla, allowing the attacker to take control of the armor itself.<ref>'''Halo: Cryptum''', ''page 194''</ref> Powerful ancillas, such as [[Mendicant Bias]], were capable of overriding personal armor and even using it to crush the wearer.{{Ref/Reuse|p218}}<ref>'''Halo: Primordium''', ''page 186''</ref>


==Production notes==
==Production notes==
In ''[[The Forerunner Saga]]'', Forerunner characters are described as virtually always having their faces visible, as the face portion of the helmet of the armor is merely an invisible energy field.<ref name="c116"/> Most released visual media, including ''[[Origins]]'' and the [[Terminal (Halo 4)|terminals]] of ''[[Halo 4]]'', depict generic Forerunner armor with a helmet that completely or partially conceals the wearer's face, even on occasions where any extra protection would hardly be appropriate, including the Didact and Faber wearing full helmets in a Council meeting. The Librarian's headdress is a notable exception to this, although it is unclear whether her outfit shown in ''Halo 4'' is meant to be a suit of personal armor or a more conventional dress.
In ''[[The Forerunner Saga]]'', Forerunner characters are described as virtually always having their faces visible, as the face portion of the helmet of the armor is merely an invisible energy field.{{Ref/Reuse|c116}} Most released visual media, including ''[[Origins]]'' and the [[Terminal (Halo 4)|terminals]] of ''[[Halo 4]]'', depict generic Forerunner armor with a helmet that completely or partially conceals the wearer's face, even on occasions where any extra protection would hardly be appropriate, including the Didact and Faber wearing full helmets in a Council meeting. The Librarian's headdress is a notable exception to this, although it is unclear whether her outfit shown in ''Halo 4'' is meant to be a suit of personal armor or a more conventional dress.


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:H3 CombatSkin Concept.png|The scrapped concept art of a Forerunner combat skin by [[Bungie]]
File:HCr Promethean Concept.png|The scrapped concept art of a Forerunner combat skin by [[Bungie]]
File:H4-Terminal-Didact-Armor.jpg|The [[Ur-Didact]] clad in full armor.
File:H4-Terminal-Didact-Armor.jpg|The [[Ur-Didact]] clad in full armor.
File:H4 Didact 3d model 2.jpg|The Didact in his newer Warrior body-assist armor.<ref name="H4EVG">'''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 16''</ref>
File:H4 Didact 3d model 2.jpg|The Didact in his newer Warrior body-assist armor.<ref name="H4EVG">'''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 16''</ref>
File:H4_-_Lifeworker.jpg|A male Lifeworker wearing armor typical of his rate.
File:H4_-_Lifeworker.jpg|A male Lifeworker wearing armor typical of his rate.
File:Didactarmor.png|The Didact wearing his older suit of armor during the [[Human-Forerunner War]].
File:Didactarmor.png|The Didact wearing his older suit of armor during the [[Human-Forerunner War]].
File:H4 - Warrior-Servants.jpg|A squad of Warrior-Servants clad in battle armor.
File:H4 - Warrior-Servants.jpg|A squad of Prometheans clad in battle armor.
File:H4 - Warrior-Servants 2.jpg|Two armored Warrior-Servants.
File:H4 - Warrior-Servants 2.jpg|Two armored Warrior-Servants.
File:H4 - Warrior-Servant.jpg|A [[Promethean]] warrior in his armor.
File:Enc22 H4 Promethean.png|A [[Promethean]] warrior in his armor.
File:Halo 4 Promethean Concept art.jpg|Concept art of a Promethean's armor.
File:Halo 4 Promethean Concept art.jpg|Concept art of a Promethean's armor.
File:Forerunner origins.jpg|A suit of personal armor in ''[[Origins]]''.
File:HLeg IsoDidactArmor.png|A suit of personal armor in ''[[Origins]]''.
File:ForeunnerCGI.jpg|A Lifeworker with a Monitor.
File:ForeunnerCGI.jpg|A Lifeworker with a Monitor.
File:H4 MJOLNIR Prefect.png|A [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor (GEN2)|MJOLNIR (GEN2)]] [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Prefect|armor]] based on a [[Prefect]]'s armor.
File:H4 MJOLNIR Prefect.png|A [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor (GEN2)|MJOLNIR (GEN2)]] [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Prefect|armor]] based on a [[Prefect]]'s armor.
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**''[[Untitled story (Halo: Fractures)|Untitled story]]''
**''[[Untitled story (Halo: Fractures)|Untitled story]]''
*''[[Halo: Renegades]]''
*''[[Halo: Renegades]]''
*''[[Halo: Epitaph]]''


==Sources==
==Sources==

Latest revision as of 21:37, April 8, 2024

Artwork of different Forerunner rates.
Various types of Forerunner armor.

Personal armor,[1] most often simply referred to as armor, was a Forerunner suit of body-assist armor designed to be worn by individuals throughout their lives.[2] Fulfilling a broad variety of roles encompassing from a highly advanced protective suit and neurally-integrated computer system to an article of everyday clothing, personal armor was a central item of Forerunner culture. The armor protected its user both physically and medically, augmented their memory and perception and granted them immediate access to vast amounts of information. With its advanced medical conveniences, it was the primary reason for the Forerunners' virtually indefinite lifespans. In addition, the design and outward appearance of one's armor was a conspicuous indicator of their status in the exceedingly hierarchical Forerunner society. Armor suits specifically designed for combat were known as combat skins.[3]

Description[edit]

Two armor-clad Lifeworkers.

A suit of personal armor typically had smoothly curved features, with sections of physical armor plating laid over an inner shell of hard light. The luminous hard light shell, visible through gaps between the armor plates, outlined the wearer in a series of trim-lines.[4] Armor could also change its shape to an extent based on the occasion, be it everyday use, combat or defense, or ceremony.[5][6] Component-wise, a typical suit of armor consisted of several ribbon-like sections of torso armor,[7][8] shoulder and arm guards, leg guards and boots.[9] The helmet typically left the wearer's face visible under an adjustable film of energy,[10] while the edges of the helmet itself outlined the facial features.[8] In some cases, the hands were covered by a similar wrap of energy.[10]

Armor also served as an outward reflection of a Forerunner's state of mind. The color of the hard light cocoon changed based on the wearer's mood; for example, a dark shade expressed displeasure.[4] If the armor detected danger, it would automatically take on a defensive mode.[11] If the wearer was excited or upset, the armor's inner glow would intensify and the armor might even visibly ripple and the plating would bulk up,[12][13] as if preparing for an attack. This was especially apparent in Warrior-Servant armor which would become thicker and more robust in preparation for battle.[5] Similarly, deep distress or anguish would cause an armor's outward posture to slouch.[14]

Forerunner armor was colored according to one's rate and position. Typically, their primary coloration varied from white or light gray to black, with the color of the trim-lines ranging from white to various colors.[8] For example, Council advisors wore black armor with green highlights, while the armor worn by Council security was colored black and red.[15] The armor worn by Bornstellar Makes Eternal Lasting as a Manipular was primarily colored silver-gray, with white and green trim-lines.[8] The lavishness and overall decoration of Forerunner armor varied between rates; higher rates, such as Builders, wore more ornate armor than Warrior-Servants, who stood lower in the hierarchy.[16]

Forerunner ships were often equipped with facilities capable of producing suits of armor at will, using small engineering units, some barely visible, to "grow" the armor around the user.[17] The suits were also adaptable, and could be constructed to fit any other species, including the various species of humans. The appearance of the suit's ancilla would also be modeled according to the user's species.[18] Due to its inner layer being composed of hard light, sets of Forerunner armor were very malleable and capable of adapting to different physical builds and attributes. For example, the Ur-Didact was able to use the armor of the female Builder, Maker-of-Moons.[19] "Condensed combat wraps" stored aboard warships could also adapt a normal suit of armor to function as a combat skin.[20]

Forerunners wore personal armor almost invariably on everyday occasions, although conventional garments would be temporarily donned in certain instances, including routine replenishment, repair, cleaning and checks performed on the armor while a Forerunner stayed in the safety of their residence or a ship, for example.[21][22] Armor would also have to be removed for the ritual involved with mutation.[23] When removed, a suit of armor would automatically unwind from the wearer's body and fold itself into a compact bundle for storage.[19]

Capabilities and effects[edit]

Faber-of-Will-and-Might, the Master Builder.
The armor worn by Faber, the Master Builder.

Forerunner armor suits were equipped with ancillas, personal artificial intelligence constructs which interfaced directly with the wearer's mind. The ancilla stored and collated information recorded by the armor and the wearer's own sensory data, which could both be accessed later, significantly enhancing a Forerunner's already accurate memory.[24] In addition to their own stores of knowledge, a personal ancilla could connect to a network, such as that of a starship, and provide information for the wearer at will. However, the information one could access was limited based on their position.[8] Personal armor also allowed mature Forerunners to connect to the Domain.[2] Armor also acted as a sophisticated mind-machine interface; for example, individuals could navigate a starship via their armor, sometimes with more than one Forerunner linked to one another in synchrony.[25]

The armor eliminated a Forerunner's natural need to sleep, artificially managing the functions normally taken care of by sleeping and allowing a constant continuity of consciousness without side effects. This gave Forerunners more time for their daily activities and meditation.[26] Forerunners did still rarely experience diagnostic waking dreams induced by the armor for "housekeeping" purposes.[27] The armor was integrated with the wearer's mind to the point that in cases of psychologically harmful experiences, the armor could selectively purge specific memories. In the event of extreme mental damage, the armor could "reset" the owner's brain to a stable state. However, this process could potentially result in complications.[28]

Forerunners could transfer enormous amounts of information to one another through the armor at the touch of each other's fingertips,[29] and could engage in secure "silent conversation" by linking hands.[30] Forerunners of higher forms, namely Promethean commanders, were capable simultaneously processing the collective sensory experience of thousands of individuals, relayed through their armor.[31] The armor's sensor equipment greatly amplified a Forerunner's senses, and could even substitute natural vision altogether, such as in the case of Bitterness-of-the-Vanquished, who, despite her blindness, received visual sensory input from her armor.[32]

Personal armor granted its wearer immunity to most diseases. In emergency situations, the armor could suspend its user until they were rescued, and even provide nourishment for a time.[2] Most Forerunner armor was capable of keeping the wearer alive for years without outside influences.[7] If operational, the armor would also preserve the wearer's body after death.[33] Impressions of the wearer's consciousness were also stored in the armor in the rare event of death; traditionally, this essence would be placed into a timelocked Durance.[34] Forerunner armor also served as a powered exoskeleton, assisting or enhancing the wearer's movement.[35] Personal armor was sealed against vacuum or the lack of atmosphere.[36] Most if not all Forerunner armor possessed N-barriers and a system involving lenses to protect the user from harm.[37]

In some cases, personal armor could be configured to make its wearer hover some distance over the ground as opposed to walking. Lifeworkers and Warrior-Servants have been observed using this capability.[38] The specific features contained by a Forerunner's armor also varied according to their rate and task; for example, Lifeworker armor contained a wide array of equipment related to medicine and biological research,[4] while armor used by Warrior-Servants was designed with combat and warfare in mind.[5] One notable attribute of Warrior armor was its ability to attune itself to specific forms of attack.[39]

Though the body armor provided the user with certain advantages, it also caused the user to lose sensitivity to the world around them. For example, when Bornstellar Makes Eternal Lasting decided to remove his body armor on Earth, he found himself exceedingly vulnerable; a simple touch from Chakas caused a strong reaction. Since Forerunners also relied on the armor to keep track of minute details in their surroundings, supposedly allowing them to occupy their minds with more sophisticated thoughts, a Forerunner deprived of their armor might find their powers of observation significantly reduced, particularly in an unfamiliar environment.[40]

Countermeasures[edit]

The Forerunners also developed various countermeasures to be used against personal armor. Small automatons known as armor cracking units were specifically designed to break through armor.[41] Programs known as AI suppressors could deactivate a suit's ancilla, allowing the attacker to take control of the armor itself.[42] Powerful ancillas, such as Mendicant Bias, were capable of overriding personal armor and even using it to crush the wearer.[35][43]

Production notes[edit]

In The Forerunner Saga, Forerunner characters are described as virtually always having their faces visible, as the face portion of the helmet of the armor is merely an invisible energy field.[10] Most released visual media, including Origins and the terminals of Halo 4, depict generic Forerunner armor with a helmet that completely or partially conceals the wearer's face, even on occasions where any extra protection would hardly be appropriate, including the Didact and Faber wearing full helmets in a Council meeting. The Librarian's headdress is a notable exception to this, although it is unclear whether her outfit shown in Halo 4 is meant to be a suit of personal armor or a more conventional dress.

Gallery[edit]

  • The scrapped concept art of a Forerunner combat skin by Bungie

    The scrapped concept art of a Forerunner combat skin by Bungie

  • The Ur-Didact clad in full armor.

    The Ur-Didact clad in full armor.

  • The Didact in his newer Warrior body-assist armor.[44]

    The Didact in his newer Warrior body-assist armor.[44]

  • A male Lifeworker wearing armor typical of his rate.

    A male Lifeworker wearing armor typical of his rate.

  • The Didact wearing his older suit of armor during the Human-Forerunner War.

    The Didact wearing his older suit of armor during the Human-Forerunner War.

  • A squad of Prometheans clad in battle armor.

    A squad of Prometheans clad in battle armor.

  • Two armored Warrior-Servants.

    Two armored Warrior-Servants.

  • A Promethean warrior in his armor.

    A Promethean warrior in his armor.

  • Concept art of a Promethean's armor.

    Concept art of a Promethean's armor.

  • A suit of personal armor in Origins.

    A suit of personal armor in Origins.

  • A Lifeworker with a Monitor.

    A Lifeworker with a Monitor.

  • A MJOLNIR (GEN2) armor based on a Prefect's armor.

    A MJOLNIR (GEN2) armor based on a Prefect's armor.

List of appearances[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ Halo: Cryptum, pages 71, 78, 126
  2. ^ a b c Halo: Cryptum, page 13
  3. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved, campaign level The Library
  4. ^ a b c Halo: Silentium, pages 21-22
  5. ^ a b c Halo: Silentium, page 26
  6. ^ Rebirth
  7. ^ a b Halo: Cryptum, page 71
  8. ^ a b c d e Halo: Cryptum, page 107
  9. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 18
  10. ^ a b c Halo: Cryptum, pages 116, 121
  11. ^ Halo: Silentium, page 90
  12. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 119
  13. ^ Halo: Silentium, page 287
  14. ^ Halo: Silentium, page 251
  15. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 256
  16. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 81-82
  17. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 106
  18. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 108
  19. ^ a b Halo: Silentium, page 108
  20. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 126
  21. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 247
  22. ^ Halo: Silentium, page 197
  23. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 148
  24. ^ Halo: Silentium, page 41
  25. ^ Halo: Silentium, page 70
  26. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 241
  27. ^ Halo: Silentium, page 150
  28. ^ Halo: Silentium, page 161
  29. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 140
  30. ^ Halo: Silentium, page 24
  31. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 162
  32. ^ Halo: Silentium, page 247
  33. ^ Halo: Primordium, page 52
  34. ^ Halo: Cryptum, pages 47-48
  35. ^ a b Halo: Primordium, page 218
  36. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 116
  37. ^ Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe, "Soma the Painter"
  38. ^ Halo 4, Terminals
  39. ^ Halo: Escalation, Issue 10
  40. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 78
  41. ^ Halo: Primordium, page 13
  42. ^ Halo: Cryptum, page 194
  43. ^ Halo: Primordium, page 186
  44. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 16

v • d • e
 
List of armor by faction

v • d • e
 
Human
Standard-issue
Powered exoskeleton
Configurations and accessories
v • d • e
 
Covenant
Other equipment
v • d • e
 
Forerunner

v • d • e
 
The Forerunners

v • d • e
 
Technology
AI suppressor • Ancilla • Anti-gravity gondola • Assembler vats • Astroengineering • Baffler • Combat skin ((War sphinx • Seeker)) • Confinement bubble • Confinement field • Constraint field • Console • Coordinate key • Dazzler • Design seed ((Upgrade seed)) • Durance ((Didact's Gift)) • Encephalon • Energy core • Engineering unit • Entanglement dish • Flarecore • Gas canister • Guardian • Hard light (Light bridge) • Grappler • Huragok • Interdiction web • Lifeworker beacon • Mind transfer • Modular Dispersal Technology • Observation pane • Personal armor • Power core • Relic core • Sharquoi • Slipspace bubble • Slipspace core (Flake) • Slipspace field pod • Slipspace translocation ((Personal slipspace unit • Teleporter • Teleportation grid • Slipspace portal)) • Smartmatter • State-shifter • Stasis field • Verivorr • Weapon rack • Z-9930 Terminal
For a complete list, check out our Forerunner category.
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