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Before [[Xbox]], before the release of ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', there was a game that was originally announced for the [[Wikipedia:Macintosh|Mac]] and the [[Wikipedia:Personal Computer|PC]] as a 3rd-person shooter.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RfXCY8UMYk '''Youtube''': ''Bungie PAX Panel 2009'']</ref> The game development time was from around 1998 to the release of ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', originating as a [[Wikipedia:Myth (computer game)|Myth-style]] strategy game before turning into an over-the-shoulder cooperative netgame, and finally being retooled as a straight-up FPS for the XBox port. As the game evolved, several vehicles and weapons were cut and others had complete overhauls from the game. Below are some examples of lost or heavily modified game play items:
[[File:Cgw oct coverscan.jpg|thumb|Cover of CGW magazine. [http://www.cgwmuseum.org/galleries/issues/cgw_184.pdf November 1999, Issue 184.], featuring the Pre-Xbox ''Halo'' Game.]]
Before [[Xbox]], and before the release of ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', there was a game that was originally announced for the [[Wikipedia:Macintosh|Mac]] and the [[Wikipedia:Personal Computer|PC]] as a 3rd-person shooter, simply referred to as '''Halo'''.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RfXCY8UMYk '''Youtube''': ''Bungie PAX Panel 2009'']</ref> The game development time was from around 1998 to the release of ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', originating as a [[Wikipedia:Myth (series)|Myth-style]] strategy game before turning into a third person shooter, and finally being retooled as a straight-up FPS for the Xbox console. As the game evolved, several vehicles and weapons were cut and others had complete overhauls. Below are some examples of lost or heavily modified gameplay items.


==RTS Gameplay==
==RTS stage==
In the beginning stages of the Halo series, it was first going to be an RTS game for the Mac. Some of the known elements of the early render include the:
Originally, Halo was going to be made an RTS for the Mac. Bungie employees had considered this version of Halo to be a clone of [[Myth]] with a Sci-Fi skin over it.<ref name="ReferenceA">'''[[Bungie]] [[ViDoc]]''': ''[[Bungie ViDoc: O Brave New World|O Brave New World]]''</ref> At some point, the entire game was redesigned, but was still an RTS.
*'''Heavy Trooper''' - Infantry units and early iteration of the SPARTAN-IIs.
 
*'''Toolbar''' - Used to select, command, etc.
===Units===
*'''Groundblast''' - (unknown, most likely scenery.)
*'''Bunker''' - A concrete fortification that may have provided cover.
*'''Zedsu''' - A tank.
*'''Heavy Trooper''' - Infantry units and an early iteration of the SPARTAN-IIs.
*'''Bunker''' - A structure.
*'''Scoutcar A.K.A Hummer''' - [[Hummer|An early version]] of the [[Warthog]] featuring a pair of roof-mounted machine guns.
*'''Scoutcar A.K.A Hummer''' - Early Version of the Warthog.
*'''Zedsu''' - A conventional-looking main battle tank.
*'''Horseshoecrab tank''' - A Tank.
*'''Stalker''' - A heavier, camouflaged tank.
*'''Alien Tank''' - Tank of the opposing forces and early iteration of the Wraith.
*'''Alien Tank A.K.A Horseshoe crab tank''' - A large, brown tank. Its design may have inspired the later [[Seraph]].
*'''Mowitser''' - Probable howitzer cannon due to the name.
*'''[[Cut Halo: Combat Evolved vehicles#Forerunner Tank|Forerunner Tank]]''' - An asymmetrical armored vehicle
*'''Aliens''' - The precursors to the Covenant in the final game.
*'''Mowitser''' - Assumably a mortar/howitzer hybrid artillery unit.  
*'''Aliens''' - The precursors to the [[Covenant]] in the final game.
*'''Starfighter''' - An aerial vehicle.
*'''Starfighter''' - An aerial vehicle.
*'''Propane or Gas Tanks''' - Scenery.
*'''Ghost''' - Early iteration of the Ghost RAV.  
*'''Ghost''' - Early iteration of the Ghost RAV.
* '''Other unidentified vehicles''' - Vehicles similar in appearance to Halo Wars vehicles, such as the Wolverine, Rhino and the cut Cougar.
*'''Other Vehicles''' - Vehicles similar in appearance to Halo Wars Wolverine, Rhino and the cut Cougar.
*'''Elephant Precursor''' - The precursor to the Elephant.


==Pre Halo Featured==
===Gallery===
===Vehicles===
<gallery>
[[File: Halo edge 4.jpg|200px|thumb|The Shadow, which later became the [[Spectre]]]]
File:Oldhalo rts testing.png|The game being tested.
====Helicopter====
File:Oldhalo rts 1.png|The Zedsu tank with some heavy troopers (Note that "Groundblast" is selected).
In the early renders of the Halo series, it was originally planned to have a helicopter within the game.
File:Oldhalo rts 2.png|Heavy troopers
 
File:Oldhalo rts 3.png|Scout cars, the stalker tank, an APC, horseshoe crab tanks, the Mowitser, and heavy troopers.
====Watercraft====
File:Oldhalo rts longsword topright.png|Scout cars, a stalker tank, horseshoe crab tanks, heavy troopers, the Mowitser, the starfighter, and some propane tanks.
Known as "Dual-carrot craft" and Regular inflated raft, it was cut from the pre-production of the game.
File:Oldhalo rts 5.png|A heavy trooper (left) and a destroyed scout car (right).
 
File:Rts Stalker tank.png|The Stalker Tank is selected by the player.
====Stealth Tank====
File:Rts Mowitser.png|The Mowitser is selected (Notice the Starfighter in the top left).
A tank model found in the early versions of Halo.
File:Oldhalo rts 6.png|The redesigned UI.
File:Rts redone.png|Multiple units lined up (Notice how most of the models are untextured)
File:Rts redone 2.png|Another image of the vehicles (Notice the propane tanks on the bottom right)
File:Rts firebase.png|A base of some sort
</Gallery>


====Transport Warthog and Mongoose Precursor====
==RPG Stage==
Presented in the Evolution of Halo Part 1, they are the [[Warthog]] and ATV that lacks mounted armaments for defense. Both later were planned to be introduced to Halo 2 but dropped and finally added into Halo 3.
At some point during development, Halo was to be a continuous RPG.{{Ref/Reuse|ReferenceA}}


====Warthog Precursor====
{{expand-section}}
The design precursor to Warthog LRV


====Elephant Precursor====
==3rd-person action game stage==
A large vehicle with a crane designed to be more like a huge Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC). This vehicle was later introduced in Halo 3 as the Elephant as well as being included in Halo Wars.
Eventually, Halo became a 3rd person action game. These builds of the game are much more similar to the final product than previous builds. Very early versions of the 3rd person version of Halo used many assets from the RTS version.
 
====Spectre====
The Spectre was originally designed to be in Halo Combat Evolved, but was cut due to balance issues. It was included in Halo 2. The mounted [[Shade]] turret, however made it into the final version of the production.
{{clear}}


===Weapons===
===Weapons===
[[File:Halo original 4.jpg|200px|thumb|Pre-Xbox render]]
The weapons of this build of Halo used names that were inspired by the [[Marathon]] series.{{Ref/Twitter|Id=TwitterMarcusWeaponNames|game_fabricator|727601612441559045|Marcus Lehto|Y=2021|M=5|D=23|Quote=Some were asking about all the weapon names in this old #Halo PC build.}} All weapons were named by [[Robt McLees]].{{Ref/Twitter|Id=TwitterMarcusWeaponRobt|game_fabricator|1388531022246023172|Marcus Lehto|Y=2021|M=5|D=23|Quote=Robt McLees named them all. I'm not certain I got the above list 100% correct since it's pretty hard to read the text in this build.}}
[[File:1212344025_Spartan_machete_ingame.jpg|thumb|A machete and an Energy Sword]]
* '''MA-5 ICW/30mm CQL''' - A 42-round assault rifle with an integral (assumably caseless) grenade launcher. It was named in reference to the [https://marathongame.fandom.com/wiki/MA-75_Assault_Rifle/Grenade_Launcher MA-75 Assault Rifle/Grenade Launcher] in the Marathon series.
====Early renders of common guns found in most of the Halo games====
* '''0x877A 18F8''' - An early {{Pattern|Okarda'phaa|plasma rifle}}. It was named in reference to the [https://marathongame.fandom.com/wiki/Alien_Weapon Alien Weapon] "0xfded" error.
*The Assault Rifle, which had the ability to fire grenades, though the grenade launcher was swapped out for a flash light in Halo's final build.
* '''8W899C-82''' - An SRS-style rifle with a chrome barrel and large muzzle brake.
*Flamethrower, which was included in PC edition of Combat Evolved and brought back for Halo 3.
* '''12.7mm MP-99 para''' - A side-loading Human submachine gun with a pronounced muzzle flash. Developers referred to it as "a fire hazard".<ref name="youtube.com">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Tqrfy4SR7I '''Unseen4's Youtube Channel''' - ''Evolution Of HALO (Beta Pre-XBOX) 1999 version & 2000 Demo'']</ref>
*Early version of the M6 series pistol.
* '''WSTE-M90 Shotgun''' - A predecessor to the contemporary M90 shotgun, named in reference to the [https://marathongame.fandom.com/wiki/WSTE-M5_Combat_Shotgun WSTE-M5 Combat Shotgun] featured in Marathon 2.
*Precursor to the SRS99.
* '''SPNKR M41 88M''' - An early version of the [[SPNKR|SPNKR Rocket Launcher]]. It was named in reference to the [https://marathongame.fandom.com/wiki/SPNKR_SSM_Launcher SPNKR SSM Launcher] weapons in Marathon.
*An early iteration of the shotgun.
* '''50 Magnum Mega Class M4a''' - An early version of the M6-series of pistols with an 18-round magazine. It was named in reference to the [https://marathongame.fandom.com/wiki/.44_Magnum_Mega_Class .44 Magnum Mega Class A1].
*A Submachine Gun, which was introduced later into Halo 2, was to replace the assault rifle.
* '''ASW Needler''' - The pre-Xbox Needler fired higher-velocity projectiles with no apparent homing ability. It used the model of the Portable Minigun.
*Anti-Aircraft Missile Launcher, which had a spiritual successor in the form of the missile pod.
* '''SPNKR 108 8AM''' - A single-shot design launcher similar in concept to the [[G4H-DuSH]].  It was named in reference to the [https://marathongame.fandom.com/wiki/SPNKR_SSM_Launcher SPNKR SSM Launcher] weapons in Marathon.
*Anti-Armour rocket Launcher, which saw use in all Halo games, though heavy changes have occurred.
* '''Pattern-2 Composite Sword''' - The machete, as featured on the difficulty shield.
* '''TOZT-21 Defoliant Projector''' - A flamethrower that sported a similar heat shield to the portable minigun. It was named in reference to the [https://marathongame.fandom.com/wiki/TOZT-7_Backpack_Napalm_Unit TOZT-7 Backpack Napalm Unit] in the Marathon series.
* '''"The Old Shovel"''' - A bolt-action, bullpup anti-armor rifle that had to be reloaded after each shot.
* '''Semi-Auto Shotgun'''
* '''Portable Minigun''' - Handheld rotary gun with a heat shield similar to the TOZT-21 Defoliant Projector.
* '''Spear Gun''' - A portable harpoon intended for use against underwater enemies
* '''Gravity Rifle''' - A Covenant sniper rifle that vaguely resembles the [[Type-50 particle beam rifle]], its spiritual successor.
* '''Alien Sniper Rifle''' - A Covenant sniper rifle that resembles an elongated {{Pattern|Okarda'phaa|plasma rifle}}.
* '''Excavator''' - A drum-fed, Fuel Rod-based weapon that resembles the [[Mauler]].
* '''Unidentified Covenant Grenade Launcher'''
* '''Gravity Wrench''' - A charge-operated Covenant heavy weapon.
* '''Fuel Rod Gun''' - Resembles the Fuel Rod Cannon found in Halo: Combat Evolved.
* '''Fuel Rod Cannon''' - A Covenant Rocket Launcher equivalent resembling the Fuel Rod Cannon from Halo 2.
* '''Energy Sword'''


====Spear Gun====
===Vehicles===
Gun that is meant to shoot at underwater enemies.
* '''Warthog''' - Early versions of the [[Warthog]]
* '''Rocket Warthog''' - A warthog that fires anti-armor missiles (resembles the [[M12G1 Gauss Warthog|Gauss Hog]])
* '''Scorpion''' - An early [[Scorpion|Scorpion Tank]] that has a missile launcher on the side instead of a machine gun turret.
* '''Stealth Tank''' - A tank with a low profile and counter-vented fire stabilization.
* '''Heavy APC''' - A heavy APC similar to the [[Elephant]].
* '''Helicopter''' - A Helicopter that was present in very early builds.
* '''Pelican''' - The standard [[Pelican]].
* '''Boat''' - A boat that was referred to as the "Dual Carrot Craft" by Bungie Employees.
* '''Ghost''' -The {{Pattern|Karo'etba|Ghost}}.
* '''Shadow''' - An early version of the {{Pattern|Wuzum|Spectre}}, that had a [[Shade Turret]] on the back instead of a {{Pattern|Pek|plasma cannon}}
* '''Wraith''' - The [[Wraith|Wraith Mortar Tank]]
* '''Banshee''' - Early versions of the [[Banshee]]
* '''Covenant Bomber''' - A cut [[Covenant bomber|Covenant Bomber]]


====Gatling Gun====
===Production notes===
The Gatling Gun was a weapon originally designed for the Pre-Xbox Halo Combat Evolved. It seemed to be a hand-held version of the [[M41 LAAG]]. It would appear that the weapon has finally come to light in the form of [[Halo 3|Halo 3's]] [[AIE-486H_Heavy_Machinegun|AIE-486H]].
* In the early versions of ''Halo'', the secondary weapon the player obtained would be placed on their back, though this feature was not present in the final release of [[Halo: Combat Evolved]] and [[Halo 2]]. This concept was finally introduced officially in ''[[Halo 3]]''.
* At some point during development, Blind Wolves were intended to be rideable.
* It would seem that at some point the development team intended underwater enemies to be present in the game, as a harpoon gun existed in these early builds of the game
* In the Evolution of Halo Part 1, there is a [[Warthog]] and an ATV that both lacks mounted armaments for defense. Both were later planned to be introduced to Halo 2 but dropped and finally added into Halo 3.
* Though the Gatling Gun is not in Halo: Combat Evolved, there have been several mods, using Halo Custom Edition, that has integrated the Gatling Gun into the game. Most if not all of these mods use the Warthog's turret model, separated from the base and the main vehicle.
* [[Engineers]] were originally going to be introduced in this game but, like most of this material, was ultimately absent from [[Halo: Combat Evolved|the final product]].  
* Though closer to the final product, the E3 2000 build is actually still a pre-Xbox Halo build {{Ref/Reuse|youtube.com}}


There have been several mods, using Halo Custom Edition, that have integrated the Gatling Gun into the game. Most if not all of these mods use the Warthog's turret model, separated from the base and the main vehicle.
===Trivia===
* The [[Marathon]] logo was incorporated into the old [[Heads Up Display]].
* An exit game screen existed that asked the player whether or not they wanted to "Retreat from Chucky's Love".<ref>[https://twitter.com/game_fabricator/status/700789830993596416 '''Marcus Lehto's Twitter''' - ''My favorite UI screen to exit the game!'']</ref>
* In the early stages of the game, the [[Halo Installation|Halo Ring]] was designed to be broken or incomplete in appearance, only attached by strands of skeletal supports in some areas, not unlike [[Installation 08]]'s appearance in [[Halo 3]]
* The [[Elites]] originally lacked the style of armor present in the actual games, with some form of Exo-Skeleton or Tech-Suit instead. They also possessed mandibles that are "more dinosaur-like", rather than having a four-pronged jaw.
*'''[[Sharquoi]]''' were intended to feature as a Covenant or wildlife unit.<ref>[https://twitter.com/game_fabricator/status/277820832221380608 '''Twitter''': ''I animated the only existing one...'']</ref>


====Machete====
===Gallery===
A machete was proposed in the pre-production of Halo: Combat Evolved, but later disposed. It is possible that, rather than being unlimited, it would have durability, and break after awhile. {{clear}}
<gallery>
File:PXH CGW1999Cover Screenshot.jpg|Image sent to CGW magazine 1999.
File:PXH FirstOfficial Screenshot.jpg|The first ever official Halo screen 1999.
File:PXH_SecondOfficial_Screenshot.jpg|The second official screenshot.
File:PXH MacheteSwordBattle Screenshot.jpg|A [[machete]] and an [[Energy Sword]]
File:Early 3rd person.png|A very early build of this version of Halo.
File:PreXbox_Ring.jpg|{{quote|It's a little prelude to what happens in the future.|Bungie employee}}
File:HCE_blambeta_1999build_brokenring.jpg|Screenshot of a 1999 ''Halo'' build running under dgVoodoo showcasing the broken ring.
File:Prexbox exit screen chucky's love.png|{{quote|My favorite UI screen to exit the game!|Marcus Lehto}}
File:Pre-Xbox Halo 2000 advertisement.jpg|A 2000 advertisement for what the game Halo is about.
File:PXH RingVista Screenshot.jpg|
</Gallery>


====Covenant Sniper Rifle====
====Human====
The 'Covenant Sniper Rifle' was a early weapon that was deleted from Halo Combat Evolved. It was cut, once again, for balance issues, but it vaguely resembles [[Halo 2]]'s [[Beam Rifle]], its spiritual successor.
<gallery>
{{clear}}
File:PXH ChiefChaingunPose Screenshot 2.jpg|The original Gatling Gun
File:PXH ChiefChaingunPose Screenshot.jpg|Another picture of the Pre Halo Minigun.
File:Early 3rd person 2.png|Two Spartans from the early builds.
File:PXH MA5OICW GrenadeLauncher Screenshot.jpg|Assault Rifle with the integral grenade launcher.
File:Prexbox MC.png|The Assault Rifle
File:Prexbox ar.png|Yet another picture showcasing the Assault Rifle
File:PXH SpearGun Screenshot 2.png|Spear Gun.
File:Prexbox harpoon gun.png|Another picture of the spear gun
File:PXH AARocket Screenshot 1.png|Surface to Air Missile Launcher.
File:PXH AARocket Screenshot 2.png|Another picture of the Surface to Air Missile Launcher.
File:Prexbox spnkr.png|Anti-Armor Rocket Launcher
File:PXH BoltActionRifle Screenshot 1.png|The "Old Shovel" sniper rifle
File:Prexbox shotty.png|The original shotgun.
File:PXH SMG Screenshot 1.png|The SMG
File:Pre xbox magnum.png|The original magnum
File:Prexbox flame.png|The TOZT-21 Defoliant Projector being fired.
File:Prexbox flamethrower.png|The flamethrower.
File:Prexbox flamethrower 2.png|The flamethrower in action.
File:PXH Machete Screenshot 2.png|The weapon labeled "Pattern-2 Composite Sword".
File:PXH Machete Screenshot 1.png|Another picture of the Pattern-2.
File:Shotgun2.jpg|A later version of the Shotgun.
File:Carrotboat.png|The "dual-carrot" watercraft was cut from the pre-production of the game.
File:Prexbox chopper.png|The Helicopter as seen in the very early build.
File:Heavy apc.png|A screenshot of the early build (Notice the Heavy APC on the top right)
File:Hog.jpg|The Pre-Halo Warthog
File:Prexbox warthog.png|The Warthog being driven by the player
File:Prexbox rocket hog.png|The original rocket hog as seen in the E3 2000 Trailer
File:Prexbox warthog 2.png|The turret's reticle
File:Prexbox warthog 3.png|While driving, the player had the ability to control both the warthog and the turret
File:PreH1-Scorpion.jpg|The Scorpion
File:Prexbox Husk.png|The Stealth Tank.<ref name="stealth">[https://twitter.com/game_fabricator/status/706167778101714944 '''Marcus Lehto's Twitter''' - ''Stealth Tank'']</ref>
File:Stealth tank.png|The Stealth Tank being driven by the player.{{Ref/Reuse|stealth}}
File:Stealth tank + hog.png|A Stealth Tank and a Warthog as seen in the early build.
File:E3 2000 pelican.png|The Pelican as seen in the E3 2000 Trailer
</Gallery>


====Excavator====
====Covenant====
[[File:Halo edge 3.jpg|200px|thumb|The Halo: Combat Evolved Beam Rifle]]
<gallery>
In the video, the Spartan is shown holding a Covenant weapon that was the design inspiration for the [[Mauler]].
File:PXH MacworldElites Screenshot 1.jpg|An Elite model circa 1999. Note the [[Elite]] in the background, seems to be holding an old [[Unidentified fuel rod gun|Fuel Rod Gun]] model.
 
File:HCE ShotgunEngineers Screenshot.jpg|Early render of an Engineer and a more up-to-date render of Master Chief
====Weapon Storage====
File:Shieldandswordeq0.png|An elite from the E3 2000 build wielding both an energy sword and an unidentified energy shield
In the early versions of Halo, the secondary weapon you obtained would be placed on your back. This feature was experienced in [[Halo 3]].
File:Sniper.png|A Cut Covenant Enemy
 
File:HCE Tankbeast Render.png|Another (presumably Covenant) Enemy
===Other Pre-Halo Features===
File:HCE Drinol Render.png|The Covenant Drinol, now known as the [[Sharquoi]]
====Broken Halo====
File:Drinol 1.png|The player encounters a Drinol
{{quote|"It's a little prelude to what happens in the future."|Bungie employee}}
File:Halo 1 Drinol.jpg|The player fights a Drinol
In the early stages of the game, Halo was designed to be in broken form, only attached by strands of skeletal supports.
File:PXH CovenantRifle Screenshot 1.jpg|The Covenant Sniper Rifle
File:PXH GravityWrench Screenshot 1.png|The Gravity Wrench
File:PXH ParticleBeamRifle Screenshot 1.png|Another Covenant Sniper Rifle
File:PXH ConcussionGun Screenshot 1.png|An unidentified Covenant grenade launcher
File:PXH Excavator Screenshot 1.png|The excavator grenade launcher
File:Prexbox fuel rod.png|The original Fuel Rod Cannon
File:Pre_Halo_Needler.jpg|The original Needler.
File:Halo Spectre Concept.jpg|An early version of the {{Pattern|Wuzum|Spectre}}, then called the Shadow.
File:Covenant bomber (fore view).png|A cut [[Covenant bomber|Covenant Bomber]] as viewed from the front
</Gallery>


====Blind Wolf====
====Wildlife====
A rideable creature found in the pre-production.
{{Clear}}
 
====Elites====
[[File:Early Elite.jpg|thumb|The early [[Elite]]s]]
An Elite model circa 1999. Notice the mandibles are more dinosaur-like, lacking the present four-pronged jaw in the actual Halo games. You can see what look like bones and ribs showing. Also, note the [[Elite]] on the right, in the background, is holding something that looks like an older [[Fuel Rod Gun]] model.
{{clear}}
 
====Old HUD====
[[File:Oldhalo.jpg|thumb|The old [[HUD]] Display and a [[Halo Array|Halo]] that has fallen under disrepair, that design was then taken and [[Installation 04(II)|incorporated]] into [[Halo 3]]]]
The [[Heads Up Display]] originally had a different design, incorporating the Marathon logo.
{{clear}}
 
==Gallery==
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:Cgw Cover.jpg|Image sent to CGW magazine 1999
File:Blind wolf - deletemat (textured).jpg|A [[Blind Wolf]]
File:Cgw oct coverscan.jpg|Actual Cover of CGW magazine 1999
File:Blind Wolves.jpg|Marines in a warthog encountering a pack of Blind Wolves
File:Halo_072199.jpg|The 1st ever official Halo screen 1999
File:Blindwolf ride.png|A player riding a Blind Wolf
File:Halo chief 1099.jpg
File:Pre-Xbox Halo Thorn beast 1.png|A [[Thorn Beast]]
File:Early Render Of Engineers.jpg|Early Render Of Engineers and Master Chief with an aerial Engineer
File:Dinosaurs.jpg|Marines encountering Thorn Beasts
File:Pre_Halo_MC_with_MA5.jpg|MA5B Assault Rifle with a grenade launcher attached
File:HCE Threeleg Render.png|A [[Threeleg|"Threeleg"]]
File:Pre_Halo_Needler.jpg|The original Needler
File:HCE Vulpard Render.png|A [[Vulpard]]
File:Speargun.jpg|Spear Gun
File:HCE Thorax Render.png|A [[Thorax]]
File:Launcher2.jpg|Surface to Air Missile Launcher
File:PXH RockWorm.png|A worm creature with an appendage like a rock in the head.<ref>[https://twitter.com/game_fabricator/status/705813745205800960 '''Marcus Lehto's Twitter''' - ''Worm Rock'']</ref>
File:Shotgun2.jpg|The original Shotgun
File:Pre_Halo_Machette.jpg|Pre Halo Machete
File:Pre_Halo_Minigun.jpg|Pre Halo Minigun
</Gallery>
</Gallery>


==Sources==
==Sources==
<references/>
{{Ref/Sources}}
 
==External links==
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Tqrfy4SR7I&feature=player_embedded '''Youtube''': ''Evolution Of HALO [Beta Pre-XBOX<nowiki>]</nowiki> 1999 version & 2000 Demo'']
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RN9vO_gRzoI&feature=player_embedded '''Youtube''': ''Evolution Of HALO [Beta Pre-XBOX<nowiki>]</nowiki> RTS & 3rd Person version'']
*[http://www.gamesradar.com/making-halo-original-very-different-game/ '''Gamesradar''': ''How the original Halo was nearly a very different game'']


==External Links==
[[Category:Deleted material]]
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Tqrfy4SR7I&feature=player_embedded '''Youtube''': ''Evolution Of HALO [Beta Pre-XBOX] 1999 version & 2000 Demo'']
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RN9vO_gRzoI&feature=player_embedded '''Youtube''': ''Evolution Of HALO [Beta Pre-XBOX] RTS & 3rd Person version'']
[[Category:Deleted Material]]

Latest revision as of 18:36, June 20, 2024

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This article is part of a series on
Halo: Combat Evolved cut content

Cut content
Development
To check out cut content for other Halo games, see here!
v • d • e
Cover of CGW magazine. November 1999, Issue 184., featuring the Pre-Xbox Halo Game.

Before Xbox, and before the release of Halo: Combat Evolved, there was a game that was originally announced for the Mac and the PC as a 3rd-person shooter, simply referred to as Halo.[1] The game development time was from around 1998 to the release of Halo: Combat Evolved, originating as a Myth-style strategy game before turning into a third person shooter, and finally being retooled as a straight-up FPS for the Xbox console. As the game evolved, several vehicles and weapons were cut and others had complete overhauls. Below are some examples of lost or heavily modified gameplay items.

RTS stage[edit]

Originally, Halo was going to be made an RTS for the Mac. Bungie employees had considered this version of Halo to be a clone of Myth with a Sci-Fi skin over it.[2] At some point, the entire game was redesigned, but was still an RTS.

Units[edit]

  • Bunker - A concrete fortification that may have provided cover.
  • Heavy Trooper - Infantry units and an early iteration of the SPARTAN-IIs.
  • Scoutcar A.K.A Hummer - An early version of the Warthog featuring a pair of roof-mounted machine guns.
  • Zedsu - A conventional-looking main battle tank.
  • Stalker - A heavier, camouflaged tank.
  • Alien Tank A.K.A Horseshoe crab tank - A large, brown tank. Its design may have inspired the later Seraph.
  • Forerunner Tank - An asymmetrical armored vehicle
  • Mowitser - Assumably a mortar/howitzer hybrid artillery unit.
  • Aliens - The precursors to the Covenant in the final game.
  • Starfighter - An aerial vehicle.
  • Ghost - Early iteration of the Ghost RAV.
  • Other unidentified vehicles - Vehicles similar in appearance to Halo Wars vehicles, such as the Wolverine, Rhino and the cut Cougar.

Gallery[edit]

  • The game being tested.

    The game being tested.

  • The Zedsu tank with some heavy troopers (Note that "Groundblast" is selected).

    The Zedsu tank with some heavy troopers (Note that "Groundblast" is selected).

  • Heavy troopers

    Heavy troopers

  • Scout cars, the stalker tank, an APC, horseshoe crab tanks, the Mowitser, and heavy troopers.

    Scout cars, the stalker tank, an APC, horseshoe crab tanks, the Mowitser, and heavy troopers.

  • Scout cars, a stalker tank, horseshoe crab tanks, heavy troopers, the Mowitser, the starfighter, and some propane tanks.

    Scout cars, a stalker tank, horseshoe crab tanks, heavy troopers, the Mowitser, the starfighter, and some propane tanks.

  • A heavy trooper (left) and a destroyed scout car (right).

    A heavy trooper (left) and a destroyed scout car (right).

  • The Stalker Tank is selected by the player.

    The Stalker Tank is selected by the player.

  • The Mowitser is selected (Notice the Starfighter in the top left).

    The Mowitser is selected (Notice the Starfighter in the top left).

  • The redesigned UI.

    The redesigned UI.

  • Multiple units lined up (Notice how most of the models are untextured)

    Multiple units lined up (Notice how most of the models are untextured)

  • Another image of the vehicles (Notice the propane tanks on the bottom right)

    Another image of the vehicles (Notice the propane tanks on the bottom right)

  • A base of some sort

    A base of some sort

RPG Stage[edit]

At some point during development, Halo was to be a continuous RPG.[2]

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3rd-person action game stage[edit]

Eventually, Halo became a 3rd person action game. These builds of the game are much more similar to the final product than previous builds. Very early versions of the 3rd person version of Halo used many assets from the RTS version.

Weapons[edit]

The weapons of this build of Halo used names that were inspired by the Marathon series.[3] All weapons were named by Robt McLees.[4]

  • MA-5 ICW/30mm CQL - A 42-round assault rifle with an integral (assumably caseless) grenade launcher. It was named in reference to the MA-75 Assault Rifle/Grenade Launcher in the Marathon series.
  • 0x877A 18F8 - An early Okarda'phaa-pattern plasma rifle. It was named in reference to the Alien Weapon "0xfded" error.
  • 8W899C-82 - An SRS-style rifle with a chrome barrel and large muzzle brake.
  • 12.7mm MP-99 para - A side-loading Human submachine gun with a pronounced muzzle flash. Developers referred to it as "a fire hazard".[5]
  • WSTE-M90 Shotgun - A predecessor to the contemporary M90 shotgun, named in reference to the WSTE-M5 Combat Shotgun featured in Marathon 2.
  • SPNKR M41 88M - An early version of the SPNKR Rocket Launcher. It was named in reference to the SPNKR SSM Launcher weapons in Marathon.
  • 50 Magnum Mega Class M4a - An early version of the M6-series of pistols with an 18-round magazine. It was named in reference to the .44 Magnum Mega Class A1.
  • ASW Needler - The pre-Xbox Needler fired higher-velocity projectiles with no apparent homing ability. It used the model of the Portable Minigun.
  • SPNKR 108 8AM - A single-shot design launcher similar in concept to the G4H-DuSH. It was named in reference to the SPNKR SSM Launcher weapons in Marathon.
  • Pattern-2 Composite Sword - The machete, as featured on the difficulty shield.
  • TOZT-21 Defoliant Projector - A flamethrower that sported a similar heat shield to the portable minigun. It was named in reference to the TOZT-7 Backpack Napalm Unit in the Marathon series.
  • "The Old Shovel" - A bolt-action, bullpup anti-armor rifle that had to be reloaded after each shot.
  • Semi-Auto Shotgun
  • Portable Minigun - Handheld rotary gun with a heat shield similar to the TOZT-21 Defoliant Projector.
  • Spear Gun - A portable harpoon intended for use against underwater enemies
  • Gravity Rifle - A Covenant sniper rifle that vaguely resembles the Type-50 particle beam rifle, its spiritual successor.
  • Alien Sniper Rifle - A Covenant sniper rifle that resembles an elongated Okarda'phaa-pattern plasma rifle.
  • Excavator - A drum-fed, Fuel Rod-based weapon that resembles the Mauler.
  • Unidentified Covenant Grenade Launcher
  • Gravity Wrench - A charge-operated Covenant heavy weapon.
  • Fuel Rod Gun - Resembles the Fuel Rod Cannon found in Halo: Combat Evolved.
  • Fuel Rod Cannon - A Covenant Rocket Launcher equivalent resembling the Fuel Rod Cannon from Halo 2.
  • Energy Sword

Vehicles[edit]

Production notes[edit]

  • In the early versions of Halo, the secondary weapon the player obtained would be placed on their back, though this feature was not present in the final release of Halo: Combat Evolved and Halo 2. This concept was finally introduced officially in Halo 3.
  • At some point during development, Blind Wolves were intended to be rideable.
  • It would seem that at some point the development team intended underwater enemies to be present in the game, as a harpoon gun existed in these early builds of the game
  • In the Evolution of Halo Part 1, there is a Warthog and an ATV that both lacks mounted armaments for defense. Both were later planned to be introduced to Halo 2 but dropped and finally added into Halo 3.
  • Though the Gatling Gun is not in Halo: Combat Evolved, there have been several mods, using Halo Custom Edition, that has integrated the Gatling Gun into the game. Most if not all of these mods use the Warthog's turret model, separated from the base and the main vehicle.
  • Engineers were originally going to be introduced in this game but, like most of this material, was ultimately absent from the final product.
  • Though closer to the final product, the E3 2000 build is actually still a pre-Xbox Halo build [5]

Trivia[edit]

  • The Marathon logo was incorporated into the old Heads Up Display.
  • An exit game screen existed that asked the player whether or not they wanted to "Retreat from Chucky's Love".[6]
  • In the early stages of the game, the Halo Ring was designed to be broken or incomplete in appearance, only attached by strands of skeletal supports in some areas, not unlike Installation 08's appearance in Halo 3
  • The Elites originally lacked the style of armor present in the actual games, with some form of Exo-Skeleton or Tech-Suit instead. They also possessed mandibles that are "more dinosaur-like", rather than having a four-pronged jaw.
  • Sharquoi were intended to feature as a Covenant or wildlife unit.[7]

Gallery[edit]

  • Image sent to CGW magazine 1999.

    Image sent to CGW magazine 1999.

  • The first ever official Halo screen 1999.

    The first ever official Halo screen 1999.

  • The second official screenshot.

    The second official screenshot.

  • A very early build of this version of Halo.

    A very early build of this version of Halo.

  • :"It's a little prelude to what happens in the future." :— Bungie employee

    "It's a little prelude to what happens in the future."
    — Bungie employee
  • Screenshot of a 1999 Halo build running under dgVoodoo showcasing the broken ring.

    Screenshot of a 1999 Halo build running under dgVoodoo showcasing the broken ring.

  • :"My favorite UI screen to exit the game!" :— Marcus Lehto

    "My favorite UI screen to exit the game!"
    — Marcus Lehto
  • A 2000 advertisement for what the game Halo is about.

    A 2000 advertisement for what the game Halo is about.

  • PXH RingVista Screenshot.jpg

Human[edit]

  • The original Gatling Gun

    The original Gatling Gun

  • Another picture of the Pre Halo Minigun.

    Another picture of the Pre Halo Minigun.

  • Two Spartans from the early builds.

    Two Spartans from the early builds.

  • Assault Rifle with the integral grenade launcher.

    Assault Rifle with the integral grenade launcher.

  • The Assault Rifle

    The Assault Rifle

  • Yet another picture showcasing the Assault Rifle

    Yet another picture showcasing the Assault Rifle

  • Spear Gun.

    Spear Gun.

  • Another picture of the spear gun

    Another picture of the spear gun

  • Surface to Air Missile Launcher.

    Surface to Air Missile Launcher.

  • Another picture of the Surface to Air Missile Launcher.

    Another picture of the Surface to Air Missile Launcher.

  • Anti-Armor Rocket Launcher

    Anti-Armor Rocket Launcher

  • The "Old Shovel" sniper rifle

    The "Old Shovel" sniper rifle

  • The original shotgun.

    The original shotgun.

  • The SMG

    The SMG

  • The original magnum

    The original magnum

  • The TOZT-21 Defoliant Projector being fired.

    The TOZT-21 Defoliant Projector being fired.

  • The flamethrower.

    The flamethrower.

  • The flamethrower in action.

    The flamethrower in action.

  • The weapon labeled "Pattern-2 Composite Sword".

    The weapon labeled "Pattern-2 Composite Sword".

  • Another picture of the Pattern-2.

    Another picture of the Pattern-2.

  • A later version of the Shotgun.

    A later version of the Shotgun.

  • The "dual-carrot" watercraft was cut from the pre-production of the game.

    The "dual-carrot" watercraft was cut from the pre-production of the game.

  • The Helicopter as seen in the very early build.

    The Helicopter as seen in the very early build.

  • A screenshot of the early build (Notice the Heavy APC on the top right)

    A screenshot of the early build (Notice the Heavy APC on the top right)

  • The Pre-Halo Warthog

    The Pre-Halo Warthog

  • The Warthog being driven by the player

    The Warthog being driven by the player

  • The original rocket hog as seen in the E3 2000 Trailer

    The original rocket hog as seen in the E3 2000 Trailer

  • The turret's reticle

    The turret's reticle

  • While driving, the player had the ability to control both the warthog and the turret

    While driving, the player had the ability to control both the warthog and the turret

  • The Scorpion

    The Scorpion

  • The Stealth Tank.[8]

    The Stealth Tank.[8]

  • The Stealth Tank being driven by the player.[8]

    The Stealth Tank being driven by the player.[8]

  • A Stealth Tank and a Warthog as seen in the early build.

    A Stealth Tank and a Warthog as seen in the early build.

  • The Pelican as seen in the E3 2000 Trailer

    The Pelican as seen in the E3 2000 Trailer

Covenant[edit]

  • An Elite model circa 1999. Note the Elite in the background, seems to be holding an old Fuel Rod Gun model.

    An Elite model circa 1999. Note the Elite in the background, seems to be holding an old Fuel Rod Gun model.

  • Early render of an Engineer and a more up-to-date render of Master Chief

    Early render of an Engineer and a more up-to-date render of Master Chief

  • An elite from the E3 2000 build wielding both an energy sword and an unidentified energy shield

    An elite from the E3 2000 build wielding both an energy sword and an unidentified energy shield

  • A Cut Covenant Enemy

    A Cut Covenant Enemy

  • Another (presumably Covenant) Enemy

    Another (presumably Covenant) Enemy

  • The Covenant Drinol, now known as the Sharquoi

    The Covenant Drinol, now known as the Sharquoi

  • The player encounters a Drinol

    The player encounters a Drinol

  • The player fights a Drinol

    The player fights a Drinol

  • The Covenant Sniper Rifle

    The Covenant Sniper Rifle

  • The Gravity Wrench

    The Gravity Wrench

  • Another Covenant Sniper Rifle

    Another Covenant Sniper Rifle

  • An unidentified Covenant grenade launcher

    An unidentified Covenant grenade launcher

  • The excavator grenade launcher

    The excavator grenade launcher

  • The original Fuel Rod Cannon

    The original Fuel Rod Cannon

  • The original Needler.

    The original Needler.

  • An early version of the Wuzum-pattern Spectre, then called the Shadow.

    An early version of the Wuzum-pattern Spectre, then called the Shadow.

  • A cut Covenant Bomber as viewed from the front

    A cut Covenant Bomber as viewed from the front

Wildlife[edit]

  • Marines in a warthog encountering a pack of Blind Wolves

    Marines in a warthog encountering a pack of Blind Wolves

  • A player riding a Blind Wolf

    A player riding a Blind Wolf

  • Marines encountering Thorn Beasts

    Marines encountering Thorn Beasts

  • A Thorax

    A Thorax

  • A worm creature with an appendage like a rock in the head.[9]

    A worm creature with an appendage like a rock in the head.[9]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ Youtube: Bungie PAX Panel 2009
  2. ^ a b Bungie ViDoc: O Brave New World
  3. ^ Twitter, Marcus Lehto (@game_fabricator): "Some were asking about all the weapon names in this old #Halo PC build." (Retrieved on May 23, 2021) [archive]
  4. ^ Twitter, Marcus Lehto (@game_fabricator): "Robt McLees named them all. I'm not certain I got the above list 100% correct since it's pretty hard to read the text in this build." (Retrieved on May 23, 2021) [archive]
  5. ^ a b Unseen4's Youtube Channel - Evolution Of HALO (Beta Pre-XBOX) 1999 version & 2000 Demo
  6. ^ Marcus Lehto's Twitter - My favorite UI screen to exit the game!
  7. ^ Twitter: I animated the only existing one...
  8. ^ a b Marcus Lehto's Twitter - Stealth Tank
  9. ^ Marcus Lehto's Twitter - Worm Rock

External links[edit]

Retrieved from "https://www.halopedia.org/index.php?title=Pre-Xbox_Halo&oldid=1631956"