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{{era|HGN}}
{{Title|''Halo Graphic Novel''}}
{{Ratings}}
{{Status|RealWorld}}
{{Book Info
{{Novel infobox
|name= ''Halo Graphic Novel''
|image=[[File:HGN Cover WIP.jpg|325px]]
|image=HGN_Cover_WIP.jpg
|author=[[Lee Hammock]], Jay Faerber, [[Tsutomu Nihei]], Brett Lewis, Simon Bisley, Ed Lee, Moebius.
|Author= [[Lee Hammock]], Jay Faerber, [[Tsutomu Nihei]], Brett Lewis, Simon Bisley, Ed Lee, Moebius.<br />
|publisher=Marvel Comics {{C|original}}<br/> [[Dark Horse Comics]] {{C|''New Edition''}}{{Ref/Site|Id=2021release|URL=https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/678544/halo-graphic-novel-new-edition-by-microsoft-and-343-industries|Site=Penguin Random House|Page=Halo Graphic Novel (New Edition) by Microsoft}}
|Publisher= Marvel Comics
|publication=July 19, 2006 {{C|original}}<br/> December 7, 2021 {{C|''New Edition''}}{{Ref/Reuse|2021release}}
|Date Released= July 19, 2006
|media=Print (Hardcover) {{C|original}}<br/> Print (Paperback) {{C|''New Edition''}}{{Ref/Reuse|2021release}}
|Length= 128 Pages
|length=128 pages
|US Price=$24.99
|ISBN=[[Special:BookSources/0785123725|0785123725]], [[Special:BookSources/978-0785123729|978-0785123729]]
|Can Price=$32.00
|pagelabel=Book
|UK Price=£16.99
|ISBN= 0785123725
|ISBN-13= 978-0785123729
|Amazon=http://www.amazon.com/Halo-Graphic-Novel-Lee-Hammock/dp/0785123725/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/103-6869926-5685403?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1173442867&sr=1-1
|Availability= Hardcover
|Product Dimensions= 10.4 x 7 x 0.7 inches
|Product Dimensions Metric=26.4 x 17.8 x 1.8 cm
|Shipping Weight= 1.15 pounds
|Shipping Mass= 1.00 Kg
}}
}}


The '''Halo Graphic Novel''' is a graphic novel published by [[Marvel Comics]] in partnership with [[Bungie Studios]]. The ''Halo'' series began with the award-winning popular video game ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', which spawned several books as well as video game sequels, and is focused on the story of future humanity fighting against a powerful collective of races called the [[Covenant]]. The ''Halo Graphic Novel'' is the series' first entry into the sequential art medium, and features aspects of the [[Halo Universe|''Halo'' universe]] which until then had not been discussed or seen in any medium.
The '''''Halo Graphic Novel''''' is a graphic novel anthology published by [[Marvel Comics]] in partnership with [[Bungie|Bungie Studios]]. The ''Halo'' series began with the award-winning popular video game ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', which spawned several books as well as video game sequels, and is focused on the story of future [[humanity]] fighting against a powerful collective of races called the [[Covenant]]. The ''Halo Graphic Novel'' is the series' first entry into the sequential art medium, and features aspects of the [[halo universe|''Halo'' universe]] which until then had not been discussed or seen in any medium.
 
The majority of the book is divided into four short stories by writers and artists from the computer game and comic industries. Each tale focuses on different aspects of the [[Halo universe|''Halo'' universe]], revealing stories that are tangential to the main plot of the game. The book also contains an extensive art gallery compiled of contributions from Bungie, Marvel and independent sources. Released on July 19, 2006, the ''Halo Graphic Novel'' was well-received, with reviewers noting the cohesiveness of the work as a whole, as well as the diversity of the individual material. The success of the novel led to Marvel announcing a new limited comic series,{{Ref/Reuse|2007 Comic Announcement}} which became known as ''[[Halo: Uprising]]''.
 
A new edition of the ''Halo Graphic Novel'', published by [[Dark Horse Comics]], is set for release on December 7, [[2021 (real world)|2021]].{{Ref/Reuse|2021release}} Originally, its release date was reported by Dark Horse Comics to be August 11, 2021. It was later changed to November 9, 2021. Both release dates were changed with no explanation given.{{Ref/Site|Id=Comicbook|URL=https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/halo-graphic-novel-new-edition-dark-horse/|Site=Comicbook|Page=Dark Horse Announces New Edition of Original Halo Graphic Novel|D=18|M=09|Y=2021}}


The majority of the book is divided into four short stories by writers and artists from the computer game and comic industries. Each tale focuses on different aspects of the [[Halo Universe|''Halo'' universe]], revealing stories that are tangential to the main plot of the game. The book also contains an extensive art gallery compiled of contributions from Bungie, Marvel and independent sources. Released on July 19, 2006,<ref name="ISBN">{{cite | title=Halo Graphic Novel | publisher=Marvel | id=ISBN 0785123725 | first=Various | year=2006}}</ref> the ''Halo Graphic Novel'' was well-received, with reviewers noting the cohesiveness of the work as a whole, as well as the diversity of the individual material. The success of the novel led to Marvel announcing a new limited comic series,<ref name="2007 Comic Announcement"/> which became known as ''[[Halo: Uprising]]''.
==Background and publication==
==Background and publication==
Bungie Studios' original concept of the graphic novel was to bring the ''[[Halo]]'' series into new media beyond that of video games, with sequential art being the main focus.<ref name="IGN: Exploring the Halo Graphic Novel"> {{cite web|author=Goldstein, Hilary|date=2006-06-23|url=http://uk.comics.ign.com/articles/714/714462p1.html|title=IGN: Exploring the Halo Graphic Novel (Part I)|work=[[IGN]]|accessdate=Feb 19|accessyear=2007}}</ref> Initially unsuccessful in its pursuit of finding a partner and an effective license agreement, Lorraine McLees—an artist on the ''Halo'' development team—suggested that Bungie Studios finance and edit the novel itself before pursuing a publisher. This would allow the studio to maintain control over the content and pursue the venture unencumbered by outside intervention.<ref name="IGN: Exploring the Halo Graphic Novel" /> This also gave the studio greater access to various artists that it hoped would contribute; the novel’s executive producer Brian Jarrad noted the procedure of creating the novel independently and outside the "traditional comic process" would prevent the "conflicts of interest and politics and allegiances" that could potentially arise if they approached a publisher or partner first.<ref name="IGN: Exploring the Halo Graphic Novel 2">{{cite web|author=Goldstein, Hilary|date=2006-06-23|url=http://uk.comics.ign.com/articles/714/714462p1.html|title=IGN: Exploring the Halo Graphic Novel (Part II)|work=[[IGN]]|accessdate=Feb 19|accessyear=2007}}</ref> Lead designer Maria Cabardo created a "dream team" roster of writers and artists Bungie admired, and through a period of negotiation Bungie was able to gain contributions from many of those named on the list.<ref name="IGN: Exploring the Halo Graphic Novel 2" /> Buoyed by their success in approaching those in the medium that they respected and admired, including British comic book artist Simon Bisley and French artist Jean "Moebius" Giraud, the progress of ''Halo Graphic Novel'' was described as a "cool morale boost for our team to see their universe, their characters, realized by people that we idolize in the comic industry."<ref name="Inside Bungie"> {{cite web|date=2007-01-19|author=Staff|url=http://www.edge-online.co.uk/archives/2007/01/inside_bungie.php|title=Inside Bungie|work=Edge Magazine|accessdate=February 19|accessyear=2007}}</ref>
Bungie Studios' original concept of the graphic novel was to bring the ''[[Halo]]'' series into new media beyond that of video games, with sequential art being the main focus.{{Ref/Site|Id=IGN|URL=http://uk.comics.ign.com/articles/714/714462p1.html|Site=IGN|Page=Exploring the Halo Graphic Novel (Part I)}} Initially unsuccessful in its pursuit of finding a partner and an effective license agreement, Lorraine McLees—an artist on the ''Halo'' development team—suggested that Bungie Studios finance and edit the novel itself before pursuing a publisher. This would allow the studio to maintain control over the content and pursue the venture unencumbered by outside intervention.{{Ref/Reuse|IGN}} This also gave the studio greater access to various artists that it hoped would contribute; the novel's executive producer Brian Jarrad noted the procedure of creating the novel independently and outside the "traditional comic process" would prevent the "conflicts of interest and politics and allegiances" that could potentially arise if they approached a publisher or partner first.{{Ref/Reuse|IGN}} Lead designer Maria Cabardo created a "dream team" roster of writers and artists Bungie admired, and through a period of negotiation Bungie was able to gain contributions from many of those named on the list.{{Ref/Reuse|IGN}} Buoyed by their success in approaching those in the medium that they respected and admired, including British comic book artist Simon Bisley and French artist Jean "Moebius" Giraud, the progress of ''Halo Graphic Novel'' was described as a "cool morale boost for our team to see their universe, their characters, realized by people that we idolize in the comic industry."{{Ref/Site|Id=Inside Bungie|URL=http://www.edge-online.co.uk/archives/2007/01/inside_bungie.php|Site=Edge Magazine|Page=Inside Bungie}}


The novel was completed after a two-year development cycle and Bungie sought out a publisher, eventually approaching [[Marvel Comics]]. Bungie cited Marvel's "passion for ''Halo''" and "reach in the comic and publishing industry" as the main draws to the company.<ref name="IGN: Exploring the Halo Graphic Novel" /> The studio worked alongside Marvel director of development Ruwan Jayatilleke, an early champion of the project, to assist in the distribution and publication of the novel.<ref name="Newsarama: Inside the Halo Graphic Novel"/><ref name="Bungie HGN announcement"> {{cite web|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20070203055515/http://www.bungie.net/News/TopStory.aspx?story=HGNJedi631sucks|archivedate=2007-02-03|date=2006-03-16|author=Milkie|url=http://www.bungie.net/News/TopStory.aspx?story=HGNJedi631sucks|title=Bungie Official Announcement|work=[[Bungie.net]]|accessdate=21 February|accessyear=2007}}</ref>
The novel was completed after a two-year development cycle and Bungie sought out a publisher, eventually approaching [[Marvel Comics]]. Bungie cited Marvel's "passion for ''Halo''" and "reach in the comic and publishing industry" as the main draws to the company.{{Ref/Reuse|IGN}} The studio worked alongside Marvel director of development Ruwan Jayatilleke, an early champion of the project, to assist in the distribution and publication of the novel.{{Ref/Reuse|Newsarama}}{{Ref/Site|Id=Bungie HGN announcement|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=7867|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Bungie Official Announcement|D=13|M=10|Y=2014}}


The stories themselves were designed as glimpses into the ''Halo'' universe, including information on the inner workings of the alien [[Covenant (Halo)| Covenant]], as well as details regarding elements of the back-story that were hitherto undisclosed. Jarrad explained that "The stories that happen off camera, the parallel events to the arcs that our fans know from the existing mediums, are the stories we really wanted to tell."<ref name="Newsarama: Inside the Halo Graphic Novel">{{cite web|year=2006|author=Staff|url=http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/Halo/HGNPre/HaloGN.html|title=Newsarama: Inside the Halo Graphic Novel|work= newsarama.com|accessdate=2007-02-19}}</ref> Jarrad further described this as an attempt to move away from the story of the [[Master Chief]], the central character of the franchise, and focus instead on what they believed to be the core themes that lay behind the game universe, such as maintaining hope in the face of overwhelming odds and humanity's struggle for survival; themes that extended beyond "… a genetically enhanced super soldier picking up two guns and kicking some alien butt."<ref name="Newsarama: Inside the Halo Graphic Novel"/> The four stories that ended up in the final publication were "the most interesting to [[Bungie]] and the writers of [the novel]".<ref name="halo effect"/> Although Bungie created the story arcs present in the ''Halo Graphic Novel'', the studio described the importance of providing a framework for each story that the various artists and writers could tell without jeopardizing their own voice.<ref name="Newsarama: Inside the Halo Graphic Novel"/> Artist Simon Bisley said that "the stress was to make the characters look very much as they do in the game. Beyond that point I was given free rein to interpret the script and the action" based on what was given to the artists and writers.<ref name="halo effect">{{cite web|url=http://www.usatoday.com/tech/gaming/2006-05-10-halo-graphic-novel_x.htm|title=The non-stop 'Halo' effect|work=[[USA Today]]|accessdate=2008-02-15|author=Snider, Mark|date=2006-05-10}}</ref>
The stories themselves were designed as glimpses into the ''Halo'' universe, including information on the inner workings of the alien [[Covenant]], as well as details regarding elements of the back-story that were hitherto undisclosed. Jarrad explained that "The stories that happen off camera, the parallel events to the arcs that our fans know from the existing mediums, are the stories we really wanted to tell."{{Ref/Site|Id=Newsarama|URL=http://www.newsarama.com/marvelnew/Halo/HGNPre/HaloGN.html|Site=Newsarama|Page=Inside the Halo Graphic Novel}} Jarrad further described this as an attempt to move away from the story of the [[John-117|Master Chief]], the central character of the franchise, and focus instead on what they believed to be the core themes that lay behind the game universe, such as maintaining hope in the face of overwhelming odds and humanity's struggle for survival; themes that extended beyond "… a genetically enhanced super soldier picking up two guns and kicking some alien butt."{{Ref/Reuse|Newsarama}} The four stories that ended up in the final publication were "the most interesting to [[Bungie]] and the writers of [the novel]".{{Ref/Reuse|halo effect}} Although Bungie created the story arcs present in the ''Halo Graphic Novel'', the studio described the importance of providing a framework for each story that the various artists and writers could tell without jeopardizing their own voice.{{Ref/Reuse|Newsarama}} Artist Simon Bisley said that "the stress was to make the characters look very much as they do in the game. Beyond that point I was given free rein to interpret the script and the action" based on what was given to the artists and writers.{{Ref/Site|Id=halo effect|URL=http://www.usatoday.com/tech/gaming/2006-05-10-halo-graphic-novel_x.htm|Site=USA Today|Page=The non-stop 'Halo' effect}}
 
During development of the Halo Graphic Novel, Trautmann set up a franchise group for ''Halo'' media and was told that Bungie were unhappy with the creative team, consisting of [[Wikipedia:John Ney Rieber|John Ney Rieber]] and [[Wikipedia:Adi Granov|Adi Granov]], and was told by [[Pete Parsons]] that Bungie would rather have [[Wikipedia:Alan Moore|Alan Moore]] and [[Wikipedia:Joe Kubert|Joe Kubert]].{{Ref/Site|URL=http://scifishow.libsyn.com/005-dc-reboot-trautmann-interview-round-2-of-our-quiz|Site=The Sci Fi Show|Page=Episode 005: DC Reboot/Eric Trautmann}}


===Supplemental===
===Supplemental===
Located after the main body of stories is a selection of art pieces that represent interpretations of the ''Halo'' universe from a number of comic book artists. These contributors include Doug Alexander, Rick Berry, Geof Darrow, and more than twenty-five others, both freelance and from [[Bungie Studios]]&mdash;including lead composer [[Martin O'Donnell]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://nikon.bungie.org/misc/hgn_preview/index.html?display=inside_front_cover|title="Halo Graphic Novel Preview": Front Cover|work=[[Halo.Bungie.Org]]|accessdate=February 20|accessyear=2007}}</ref>
Located after the main body of stories is a selection of art pieces that represent interpretations of the ''Halo'' universe from a number of comic book artists. These contributors include Doug Alexander, Rick Berry, Geof Darrow, and more than twenty-five others, both freelance and from Bungie — including lead composer [[Martin O'Donnell]].{{Ref/Site|URL=http://nikon.bungie.org/misc/hgn_preview/index.html?display=inside_front_cover|Site=Halo.Bungie.Org|Page="Halo Graphic Novel Preview": Front Cover}}


A few promotional pieces were created before the ''Halo Graphic Novel'''s release date, including a sixteen-page preview, released May 31, 2006, which contained Bungie's introductions to each story along with short excerpts of each story.<ref name="Bunge: 16 Page Preview Comic">{{cite web|url=http://nikon.bungie.org/misc/hgn_preview/|title="Halo Graphic Novel Preview"|work=[[Halo.Bungie.Org]]|accessdate=February 19|accessyear=2007}}</ref>  A full-color poster of the book's cover was released on June 28, 2006.<ref name="Online poster">{{cite web|author=Staff|date=2006-06-12|url=http://uk.comics.ign.com/articles/712/712165p1.html|title="Halo Graphic Novel Poster Preview"|work=[[IGN]]|accessdate=February 22|accessyear=2007}}</ref>
A few promotional pieces were created before the ''Halo Graphic Novel''{{'}}s release date, including a sixteen-page preview, released May 31, 2006, which contained Bungie's introductions to each story along with short excerpts of each story.{{Ref/Site|Id=Bunge: 16 Page Preview Comic|URL=http://nikon.bungie.org/misc/hgn_preview/|Site=Halo.Bungie.Org|Page="Halo Graphic Novel Preview"}} A full-color poster of the book's cover was released on June 28, 2006.{{Ref/Site|Id=Online poster|URL=http://uk.comics.ign.com/articles/712/712165p1.html|Site=IGN|Page="Halo Graphic Novel Poster Preview"}}


== Stories ==
==Stories==
[[Image:Infinite Succor.jpg|thumb|right|150px|A page from ''The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor''.]]
===The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor===
=== '''The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor''' ===
{{Main|The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor}}
{{Main|The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor}}
This story takes place during Halo:CE. When communications from a [[Covenant]] agricultural support ship, the ''[[Infinite Succor]]'', are mysteriously terminated, [[Rtas 'Vadumee]], also known as Half-Jaw, and his squad of Special Forces are sent to investigate. What they find is a peril more deadly and terrifying than any Human threat; Creatures never seen before by covenant nor human eyes alike.
This story takes place during the events of ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''. When communications from a {{Pattern|Mjern|agricultural support ship}}, the ''[[Infinite Succor]]'', are mysteriously terminated, [[Special Operations Commander]] [[Rtas 'Vadum]]ee, also known as Half-Jaw, and his squad of Special Force are sent to investigate. What they find is a peril more deadly and terrifying than any human threat; creatures never officially seen before by Covenant nor human eyes alike.


''Characters:''
===Armor Testing===
*[[Rtas 'Vadumee|SpecOps Commander Rtas 'Vadumee]] A.K.A. Half-jaw from [[Halo 2]]
{{Main|Armor Testing}}
*[[Kusovai|SpecOps Sub-Commander 'Kusovai]]
Set just before the events of ''Halo 2'', ''Armor Testing'' tells the story of [[Maria-062]] who tested the [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark VI|MJOLNIR Mark VI armor]] before it was handed over to John-117.
*[[Arbiter (character)|Supreme Commander of the Fleet of Particular Justice]]
*[[Legate|Legate, Minister of Etiology, ''Infinite Succor'']]
*Numerous [[Special Operations Grunt]]s and [[Elites]].
{{Clear}}


=== '''Breaking Quarantine''' ===
===Breaking Quarantine===
{{Main|Breaking Quarantine}}
{{Main|Breaking Quarantine}}
One of the untold tales from Halo is [[Sergeant Johnson]]'s escape from the clutches of the [[Flood]] menace. It reveals how one of the [[UNSC]]'s toughest [[Marines]] got out of an inescapable trap. It also resembles Japanese comics as the Artist who drew it was Tsutomu Nikei, even as he tried to avoid it being too 'Manga-ish'. The story is written in Japanese lettering.
One of the untold tales from Halo is [[Avery Johnson|Sergeant Johnson]]'s escape from the clutches of the [[Flood]] menace. It reveals how one of the [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]]'s toughest [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marines]] got out of an inescapable trap. It also resembles Japanese comics as the artist who drew it was Tsutomu Nikei, even as he tried to avoid it being too 'Manga-ish'. He enjoys how Americans are more 'gun friendly'. The story is written in Japanese lettering.
 
''Characters''
*[[Sergeant Johnson|Staff Sergeant A.J. Johnson]]
*[[Private Jenkins|Private First Class Wallace A. Jenkins]]
*[[Flood infection forms|Flood Infection Forms]]
*[[Flood combat forms|Flood Combat Forms]]
*[[Flood carrier forms|Flood Carrier Forms]]
 
=== '''Armor Testing''' ===
[[Image:Spartan-062.jpg|thumb|A page from ''Armor Testing''.]]
{{Main|Armor Testing}}
The only way to test Spartan armor, is to send a [[Spartan]]. But the question is, what's really being tested? The power of the [[MJOLNIR]] Mark VI battle armor, or the mettle of the [[ODSTs]] trying to find its weaknesses?
 
''Characters'' ''and'' ''Organizations''
*[[ODST|UNSC Marine ODST]]'s from the [[340th ODST Combat Training Unit]]
*[[Spartan-062|Petty Officer Second Class SPARTAN Maria-062]]
*[[ONI|ONI Personnel]]
*Unnamed UNSC Naval Captain
 
=== '''Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa''' ===
 
Fighting a war isn't just shipping men and machines to distant worlds. There are subtler, more dangerous fights taking place on the streets of [[New Mombasa]], and in the hearts and minds of men.


''Characters''
===Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa===
*[[ONI]]
{{Main|Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa}}
*[[Photographer (character)|Unnamed ONI "Photographer"]]
One of the first depictions of [[civilian]] life in the ''Halo'' universe, ''Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa'' follows the [[Battle of Mombasa|Covenant invasion of Mombasa]] from the viewpoint of [[Benjamin Giraud]], a journalist and war photographer in the employ of ONI's Section II. The story was illustrated by [[Wikipedia:Jean Giraud|Jean "Moebius" Giraud]].
*Unnamed UNSC Marine Corps Officer
*[[UNSC Marines]] from the [[77th Marine Regiment]]
*[[Civilian]]s
*[[Covenant]]
[[Image:Page 122.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Pg 122, an intriguing piece of gallery art.]]


=== Page 122 ===
===Page 122===
{{Main|Halo Graphic Novel Pg122}}
[[File:HGN-P122-Full.jpg|thumb|200px|Pg 122, an intriguing piece of gallery art.]]
A puzzle of valuable information about the Spartan program and [[Sergeant Avery Johnson]]. In the Gallery Art in the [[Halo Graphic Novel]], '''Pg122''', there is a page with two main boxes of text along with pictures and maps of [[Operation: KALEIDOSCOPE]]. The text boxes contain one chat log between two people and the other appears to be a log of a data query.  
{{Main|Halo Graphic Novel, Page 122}}
A puzzle of valuable information about the Spartan program and [[Avery Junior Johnson|Sergeant Avery Johnson]]. In the Gallery Art in the Halo Graphic Novel, '''Pg122''', there is a page with two main boxes of text along with pictures and maps of [[Operation: KALEIDOSCOPE]]. The text boxes contain one chat log between two people and the other appears to be a log of a data query.  


The identities of persons mentioned by the two users (identified as 'mike44236' and 'echo23023') can be determined by translating their military format designations (which appear to be based upon the current NATO phonetic alphabet). For example, when mike44236 refers to an "interest spike on alpha juliett juliett 20114," he is obviously referring to Johnson. If one examines the 'Project: ORION\RESTRICTED ACCESS' emblem in the upper left-hand corner, Johnson's name is listed below the skull symbol as 'CRPL Johnson, Avery Junior.' Below that is his service number (48789-20114-AJ). The numeric string '20114' is present in both the chat box and operative summary. Thus, 'alpha juliett juliett 20114' can be translated as 'Avery Johnson Junior 20114.' The matter of Johnson's name being listed in two different formats (sometimes as Avery J. Johnson) with two service numbers ending in different numeric sequences, has yet to be explained.
The identities of persons mentioned by the two users (identified as '[[mike44236]]' and '[[echo23023]]') can be determined by translating their military format designations (which appear to be based upon the current NATO phonetic alphabet). For example, when mike44236 refers to an "interest spike on alpha juliett juliett 20114," he is obviously referring to Johnson. If one examines the 'Project: ORION\RESTRICTED ACCESS' emblem in the upper left-hand corner, Johnson's name is listed below the skull symbol as 'CRPL Johnson, Avery Junior.' Below that is his service number (48789-20114-AJ). The numeric string '20114' is present in both the chat box and operative summary. Thus, 'alpha juliett juliett 20114' can be translated as 'Avery Johnson Junior 20114.' The matter of Johnson's name being listed in two different formats (sometimes as Avery J. Johnson) with two service numbers ending in different numeric sequences, has yet to be explained.


Subsequently, in the following lines of dialogue, 'charlie hotel 4695' can be translated as 'Catherine Halsey 4695' (her Civilian Identification Number is 10141-026-SRB'''4695'''). Also, 'juliett alpha 20101' likely refers to Colonel James Ackerson.  
Subsequently, in the following lines of dialogue, 'charlie hotel 4695' can be translated as '[[Catherine Halsey]] 4695' (her Civilian Identification Number is 10141-026-SRB'''4695'''). Also, 'juliett alpha 20101' likely refers to [[James Ackerson|Colonel James Ackerson]].  


Surrounding the boxes are pictures and maps of above mentioned operation and other related smaller text areas. The information provided by the combination of these logs seem to imply that [[Sergeant Avery Johnson]] is a [[Spartan]] from the Spartan I program. The image itself looks like a shot of someones desk. Someone who is investigating whether or not Johnson is a Spartan.
Surrounding the boxes are pictures and maps of above mentioned operation and other related smaller text areas. The information provided by the combination of these logs seem to imply that [[Avery Junior Johnson|Sergeant Avery Johnson]] is a [[ORION Project|Spartan]] from the ORION (Spartan-I) program. The image itself looks like a shot of someone's desk.


== Reception ==
==Reception==
Critical reaction from both the gaming community and the comic book community was positive. UGO Networks praised the novel, citing the wealth of contributions from recognized artists and the strength of the material in fleshing out the ''Halo'' universe as the work's greatest strength.<ref name="UGO Review">{{cite web|author=Oliveri, Wayne|url=http://www.ugo.com/channels/comics/features/halo/default.asp|title="UGO Review"|work=[[UGO]]|accessdate=20 February|accessyear=2007}}</ref><ref name="IGN Review">{{cite web|author=Goldstein, Hilary|date=2006-07-12|url=http://uk.comics.ign.com/articles/719/719171p1.html|title=IGN Review: Halo Graphic Novel|work=[[IGN]]|accessdate=20 February|accessyear=2007}}</ref> Mike Deeley of Comics Bulletin lauded the book for the diverse range of storytelling and art styles that lent the ''Halo Graphic Novel'' the feel of an anthology yet still retained a cohesive whole.<ref name="Silver Bullet Comics Review">{{cite web|author=Deeley, Mike|date=2006-08-23|url=http://www.silverbulletcomicbooks.com/reviews/115635878171387.htm|title="Silver Bullet Comics Review"|work=silverbulletcomicbooks.com|accessdate=20 February|accessyear=2007}}</ref> Other areas that received particular attention included Tsutomu Nihei's work on ''Breaking Quarantine'' for its vivid imagery and its focus on visual storytelling in lieu of any dialogue.<ref name="Moz La Punk Review">{{cite web|date=2006-06-15|author=Staff|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/player/12449.html|title="Halo Graphic Novel" Review|work=[[GameTrailers]]|accessdate=20 February|accessyear=2007}}</ref>
Critical reaction from both the gaming community and the comic book community was positive. UGO Networks praised the novel, citing the wealth of contributions from recognized artists and the strength of the material in fleshing out the ''Halo'' universe as the work's greatest strength.{{Ref/Site|Id=UGO Review|URL=http://www.ugo.com/channels/comics/features/halo/default.asp|Site=UGO|Page=Review}}{{Ref/Site|Id=IGN Review|URL=http://uk.comics.ign.com/articles/719/719171p1.html|Site=IGN Review|Page=Halo Graphic Novel}} Mike Deeley of Comics Bulletin lauded the book for the diverse range of storytelling and art styles that lent the ''Halo Graphic Novel'' the feel of an anthology yet still retained a cohesive whole.{{Ref/Site|URL=http://www.silverbulletcomicbooks.com/reviews/115635878171387.htm|Site=Silver Bullet|Page=Comics Review}} Other areas that received particular attention included Tsutomu Nihei's work on ''Breaking Quarantine'' for its vivid imagery and its focus on visual storytelling in lieu of any dialogue.{{Ref/Site|Id=Moz La Punk Review|URL=http://www.gametrailers.com/player/12449.html|Site=GameTrailers|Page=Halo Graphic Novel Review}}


Some reviewers expressed their disappointment at the novel's focus on minor characters and events, with the presence of the Master Chief&mdash;the central character of the ''Halo'' series and its most iconic figure&mdash;limited to featuring in artwork and a brief appearance in the first story.<ref name="Firingsquad Review">{{citeweb|url=http://www.firingsquad.com/features/halo_graphic_novel/default.asp|title="Firingsquad Review"|work=Firingsquad.com|date=2005-08-06|accessdate=20 February|accessyear=2007|author=Callaham, John}}</ref> On the other hand, GameTrailers praised Bungie for having the moxie to not focus on the major character.<ref name="Moz La Punk Review"/> Each publication had their own opinions on the weakest story in the collection; both IGN and GameTrailers thought that "''Armor Testing''" had the least emotional impact, although its surprise ending and art were well done.<ref name="Moz La Punk Review"/><ref name="IGN Review"/>
Some reviewers expressed their disappointment at the novel's focus on minor characters and events, with the presence of the Master Chief—the central character of the ''Halo'' series and its most iconic figure—limited to featuring in artwork and a brief appearance in the first story.{{Ref/Site|URL=http://www.firingsquad.com/features/halo_graphic_novel/default.asp|Site=Firingsquad|Page=Firingsquad Review}} On the other hand, GameTrailers praised Bungie for having the moxie to not focus on the major character.{{Ref/Reuse|Moz La Punk Review}} Each publication had their own opinions on the weakest story in the collection; both IGN and GameTrailers thought that "''Armor Testing''" had the least emotional impact, although its surprise ending and art were well done.{{Ref/Reuse|IGN Review}}{{Ref/Reuse|Moz La Punk Review}}


Upon release, the ''Halo Graphic Novel'' proved to be a "rare hit" for the games-to-comics genre,<ref name=pub/> debuting at #2 on both the Nielsen BookScan and Diamond sales charts.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newsarama.com/marketreport/july06sales.html|title=July 2006 Sales Reports|work=Newsarama|accessdate=2008-01-20|year=2006|month=July}}</ref> At least 100,000 copies were rumored to have been published,<ref name=pub>{{cite web|author=MacDonald, Heidi|date=2006-08-16|url=http://pwbeat.publishersweekly.com/blog/2006/08/18/halo-gn-selling-like-hotcakes/?q=halo+graphic+novel|title=HALO GN selling like hotcakes|work=Publisher's Weekly|accessdate=2008-02-10}}</ref> and the comic continued to be one of the top-selling graphic novels months after its debut.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newsarama.com/marketreport/aug06charts.html|title=August 2006 Sales Charts|work=Newsarama|accessdate=2008-01-20|year=2006|month=August}}</ref> The success of the novel led Marvel Comics and Bungie Studios to announce a four-issue monthly ''Halo'' comic series at San Diego Comic-Con 2006 called ''[[Halo: Uprising]]''.<ref name="2007 Comic Announcement">{{cite web|author=Goldstein, Hilary|date=2006-07-21|url=http://uk.comics.ign.com/articles/720/720412p1.html|title="San Diego 2006 Comic-Con Announcement"|work=[[IGN]]|accessdate=February 21|accessyear=2007}}</ref> Despite delays, the first issue of the limited series was released on August 22, 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.marvel.com/catalog/?id=7013|title=Catalog: ''Halo Uprising'' #1|work=[[Marvel Comics]]|accessdate=2008-01-31}}</ref>
Upon release, the ''Halo Graphic Novel'' proved to be a "rare hit" for the games-to-comics genre,{{Ref/Reuse|pub}} debuting at #2 on both the Nielsen BookScan and Diamond sales charts.{{Ref/Site|URL=http://www.newsarama.com/marketreport/july06sales.html|Site=Newsarama|Page=July 2006 Sales Reports}} At least 100,000 copies were rumored to have been published,{{Ref/Site|Id=pub|URL=http://pwbeat.publishersweekly.com/blog/2006/08/18/halo-gn-selling-like-hotcakes/?q=halo+graphic+novel|Site=Publisher's Weekly|Page=HALO GN selling like hotcakes}} and the comic continued to be one of the top-selling graphic novels months after its debut.{{Ref/Site|URL=http://www.newsarama.com/marketreport/aug06charts.html|Site=Newsarama|Page=August 2006 Sales Charts}} The success of the novel led Marvel Comics and Bungie Studios to announce a four-issue monthly ''Halo'' comic series at San Diego Comic-Con 2006 called ''[[Halo: Uprising]]''.{{Ref/Site|Id=2007 Comic Announcement|URL=http://uk.comics.ign.com/articles/720/720412p1.html|Site=IGN|Page=San Diego 2006 Comic-Con Announcement}} Despite delays, the first issue of the limited series was released on August 22, 2007.{{Ref/Site|URL=http://www.marvel.com/catalog/?id=7013|Site=Marvel Comics|Page=Catalog: ''Halo Uprising #1''}}


== Artist Credits ==
==Artist credits==
===Story artists===
*[[Lee Hammock]] - Story for ''[[The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor]]''
*[[Wikipedia:Simon Bisley|Simon Bisley]] - Art for ''The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor''
*[[Wikipedia:Jay Faerber|Jay Faerber]] - Story for ''[[Armor Testing]]''
*[http://www.andrew-robinson.org/ Andrew Robinson] - Pencils for ''Armor Testing''
*[http://www.edleeart.com/ Ed Lee] - Colors for ''[[Armor Testing]]''
*[[Tsutomu Nihei|Tsutomo Nihei]] - Art and story for ''[[Breaking Quarantine]]''
*[[Wikipedia:Jean Giraud|Jean "Moebious" Giraud]] - Art for ''[[Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa]]''
*[[Wikipedia:Phil Hale|Phil Hale]] - Cover art


=== Story Artists ===
===Gallery===
In the ''Halo Graphic Novel'', there is a section after the stories called "Gallery" which shows off a selection of visions of the Halo universe from Bungie, Marvel and other artists, created solely for this book. Below is a full list of who they are and what they drew in the ''HGN'':


*[http://www.andrew-robinson.org/ Andrew Robinson] - Pencils for '''Armor Testing'''
===Marvel and other artists===
*[http://www.edleeart.com/ Ed Lee] - Colors for '''Armor Testing'''
*'''[http://www.ainokostudios.com/ Doug Alexander]''' - [[John-117|Master Chief]] with a [[shotgun]] in hand and [[Maria-062|SPARTAN-062]] (without her armor) wielding a [[M7057/Defoliant Projector|flamethrower]], surrounded by [[The Flood|Flood]].
*[http://www.jayfaerber.com/ Jay Faerber] - Story for '''Armor Testing'''
*'''[[Rick Berry]]''' - An unknown [[Sangheili]] soldier in a cloudy environment.
*[[Lee Hammock]] - Story for [[The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor]]
*'''[http://lambiek.net/artists/d/darrow_g.htm Geoff Darrow]''' - [[John-117|Master Chief]] standing over one destroyed [[The Flood|Flood]] [[Pod infector]], while behind him a group of a hundred [[Pod infector]]s gather.
*[http://www.bpib.com/illustrat/giraud.htm Jean "Moebious" Giraud] - Art for '''Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa'''
*'''[http://www.fischart.com/ Scott Fischer]''' - [[John-117|Master Chief]] with a [[shotgun]], with a realistic looking [[Cortana]] in front of him
*[http://secure.grantbooks.com/z-artists-phil-hale.html Phil Hale]
*'''[http://www.sterlinghundley.com/ Sterling Hundley]''' - The [[John-117|Master Chief]] wading through a swamp of dead [[The Flood|Flood]], with a [[shotgun]].
*[http://www.simonbisleyonline.com/ Simon Bisley] Art for [[The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor]]
*'''[http://www.fantasygallery.net/mullins/index1.html Craig Mullins]''' - Blood stained [[John-117|Master Chief]] holding a battle rifle. Marines in background and palm trees; Possibly New Mombasa.
*[[Tsutomo Nihei]] - Art and story for [[Breaking Quarantine]]
*'''[http://www.studiokrum.com/blame/interest.html Tsutomu Nihei]''' - An [[Sangheili|Elite]] [[flood combat form|combat form]] roaring.
 
*'''[http://www.georgepratt.com/ George Pratt]''' - [[John-117|Master Chief]] holding a [[type-50 Sniper Rifle System|beam rifle]] with a few grenades to his feet, getting cover from a destroyed pillar of a building.
=== Gallery ===
*'''[http://buttermonster.com/ Juan Ramirez]''' - [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marines]] are attacked by a [[Jiralhanae|Brute]] and a [[Unggoy|Grunt]].
 
*'''[http://www.gregstaples.co.uk/ Greg Staples]''' - Shooting with the [[MA5B Individual Combat Weapon System|MA5B Assault Rifle]], the [[John-117|Master Chief]] is surrounded by the [[Covenant Empire|Covenant]]. Planet Earth in the background.  
In the Halo Graphic Novel, there is a section after the stories called "Gallery" which shows off a selection of visions of the Halo universe from Bungie, Marvel and Other Artists, created solely for this book. Below is a full list of who they are and what they drew in the ''HGN'':
 
=== Marvel and Other Artists ===
 
*'''[http://www.ainokostudios.com/ Doug Alexander]''' - [[Master Chief]] with a [[shotgun]] in hand and [[SPARTAN-062]] (without her armor) surrounded by [[Flood]].
*'''[[Rick Berry]]''' - An unknown [[Covenant]] soldier in a cloudy environment.
*'''[http://lambiek.net/artists/d/darrow_g.htm Geoff Darrow]''' - [[Master Chief]] standing over one destroyed [[Flood]] [[infection form]], while behind him a group of a hundred [[infection forms]] gather.
*'''[http://www.fischart.com/ Scott Fischer]''' - [[Master Chief]] with a [[shotgun]], with a realistic looking [[Cortana]] in front of him
*'''[http://www.sterlinghundley.com/ Sterling Hundley]''' - The [[Master Chief]] wading through a swamp of dead [[Flood]], with a [[shotgun]].
*'''[http://www.fantasygallery.net/mullins/index1.html Craig Mullins]''' - Blood stained [[Master Chief]] holding a battle rifle. Marines in background and palm trees; Possibly New Mombasa.
*'''[http://www.studiokrum.com/blame/interest.html Tsutomu Nihei]''' - A [[Elite]] [[combat form]] roaring.
*'''[http://www.georgepratt.com/ George Pratt]''' - [[Master Chief]] holding a [[beam rifle]] with a few grenades to his feet, getting cover from a destroyed pillar of a building.
*'''[http://buttermonster.com/ Juan Ramirez]''' - [[Marines]] are attacked by a [[Brute]] and a [[Grunt]].
*'''[http://www.gregstaples.co.uk/ Greg Staples]''' - Shooting with the [[MA5B Assault Rifle]], the [[Master Chief]] is surrounded by the [[Covenant]]. Planet Earth in the background.  
*'''[http://www.justinsweet.com/ Justin Sweet]''' - [[Tartarus]] sitting on a stone chair, with the [[Fist of Rukt]] beside him.
*'''[http://www.justinsweet.com/ Justin Sweet]''' - [[Tartarus]] sitting on a stone chair, with the [[Fist of Rukt]] beside him.
*'''[http://www.cartouchepress.com/artbooks/vanfleet/ John Van Fleet]''' - [[Master Chief]] with dual [[SMG]]'s firing on [[Flood]] in a [[UNSC]] background
*'''[http://www.cartouchepress.com/artbooks/vanfleet/ John Van Fleet]''' - [[John-117|Master Chief]] with dual [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun|SMG]]'s firing on [[The Flood|Flood]] in a [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]] background
*'''[http://www.kentwilliams.com/ Kent Willams]''' - The [[Master Chief]] firing [[SMG]]’s above and below him into a plant like creature (Possibly [[Gravemind]])
*'''[http://www.kentwilliams.com/ Kent Willams]''' - The [[John-117|Master Chief]] firing [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun|SMG]]’s above and below him into a plant like creature (Possibly [[Gravemind]])


=== Bungie Artists ===
===Bungie artists===
[[Image:MisterEscher.jpg|thumb|For the [[HGN]] Frankie did this take on Dutch Artist [[Wikipedia:M. C. Escher|M. C. Escher's]] famous drawing]]
[[File:MisterEscher.jpg|thumb|250px|Frankie made this take on Dutch Artist [[Wikipedia:M. C. Escher|M. C. Escher's]] famous drawing for the book.]]
*[[Chris Barrett]] - A Covenant Elite holding a plasma rifle.
*[[Chris Barrett]] - A Covenant Elite holding a plasma rifle.
*[[Rick Berry]] - An unknown Covenant soldier in a dark environment. Possibly a Hunter of some sort.
*[[Rick Berry]] - An unknown Covenant soldier in a dark environment. Possibly a Hunter or an Elite of some sort.
*'''Frank Capezutto III''' - A plasma grenade nearly missing a trio of UNSC Marines.
*'''Frank Capezzutto III''' - A plasma grenade nearly missing a trio of UNSC Marines, including [[L. Jenkins]] and [[L. P. B.]].
*[[Tom Doyle]] - Master Chief holding a crying child with a dead Elite on the floor, staring at the invading fleet above New Mombasa.
*[[Tom Doyle]] - Master Chief holding a crying child with a dead Elite on the floor, staring at the invading fleet above New Mombasa.
*[[Issac Hannaford]] - Pg 107, a UNSC [[ODST]] meets a roaring [[Brute]].
*Issac Hannaford - A UNSC [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper|ODST]] meets a roaring [[Jiralhanae|Brute]].
*[[Shi Kai Wang]] - A Prophet holding his head, exasperated.
*[[Shi Kai Wang]] - The [[Prophet of Truth]] holding his head, exasperated.
*[[Lorraine McLees]] - Master Chief with a full assortment of every human weapon available with ammo clips (including mounted machine guns, flamethrower and an energy sword handle) with a Pelican, two different Warthogs, two Longswords and an [[ODST]] Helljumper team of eight in the background.
*[[Lorraine McLees]] - Master Chief with a full assortment of every human weapon available with ammo clips (including mounted machine guns, flamethrower and an energy sword handle) with a Pelican, two different Warthogs, two Longswords and an [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper|ODST]] Helljumper team of eight in the background.
*[[Robert McLees]] - Battle and conversation reports.
*[[Robert McLees]] - Battle and conversation reports.
*[[Frank O'Connor]] - A hand holding a reflective sphere, the picture is the Mister Chief in his room. Bungie recently released the picture on bungie.net, [http://www.bungie.net/images/News/InlineImages/MisterEscher.jpg Mister Chief] .
*[[Frank O'Connor]] - A hand holding a reflective sphere, the picture is the Mister Chief in his room. Bungie recently released the picture on Bungie.net, [http://halo.bungie.net/images/News/InlineImages/MisterEscher.jpg Mister Chief] .
*[[Eddie Smith]] - Master Chief appearing in a the light through a doorway surrounded by rubble.
*[[Eddie Smith]] - Master Chief appearing in the light through a doorway surrounded by rubble.
*[[Craig Mullins]] - Master Chief pausing to observe a raging battle.
*[[Craig Mullins]] - Master Chief pausing to observe a raging battle.
*[http://www.georgepratt.com/ George Pratt] - Master Chief aiming a [[Particle Beam Rifle]].
*[http://www.georgepratt.com/ George Pratt] - Master Chief aiming a [[Type-50 particle beam rifle|Particle Beam Rifle]].
*[[Juan Ramirez]] - A heavily stylized image of three marines fighting a Brute and a Grunt.
*[[Juan Ramirez]] - A heavily stylized image of three marines fighting a Brute and a Grunt.
*[http://www.gregstaples.co.uk/ Greg Staples] - Another heavily stylized image, this time of Master Chief firing an assault rifle at several Covenant on a slanted ground (implying he is on Halo) with several Banshees, Covenant cruisers, and a planet in the background.
*[http://www.gregstaples.co.uk/ Greg Staples] - Another heavily stylized image, this time of Master Chief firing an assault rifle at several Covenant on a slanted ground (implying he is on Halo) with several Banshees, Covenant cruisers, and a planet in the background.
*[[Tsutomu Nihei]] - A roaring [[Flood]] Elite [[combat form]].
*[[Tsutomu Nihei]] - A roaring [[The Flood|Flood]] Elite [[flood combat form|combat form]].
*[http://www.fischart.com/ Scott Fischer] - Master Chief standing behind a realistic depiction of Cortana.
*[http://www.fischart.com/ Scott Fischer] - Master Chief standing behind a realistic depiction of Cortana.
*[http://www.geofdarrow.net/ Geof Darrow] - A two page spread of Master Chief standing over a destroyed Flood [[infection form]] holding two SMGs, with dozens more infection forms coming up behind him.
*[http://www.geofdarrow.net/ Geof Darrow] - A two-page spread of Master Chief standing over a destroyed Flood [[Pod infector]] holding two SMGs, with dozens more Pod infectors coming up behind him.
*[[Paul Russel]] - He drew a small comic at the end of the book.
*[[Paul Russel]] - He drew a small comic, ''[[Shore Leave: Master Chief on Holiday|Shore Leave]]'', at the end of the book.


== Trivia ==
==Gallery==
*On page 93, during the "''Second Sunrise''" story, the armor a marine is wearing as he/she is shot looks very similar to a concept drawing of the MJOLNIR by Shi Kai Wang, this sketch can be found on "''The Art of Halo: Creating a Virtual World''" page 5.
<gallery>
*On page 76, the shotgun fired shows around 30-50 pellets coming out of the barrel of the gun. This is not consistent with the story as the shells used only carry 15 pellets.
File:Halo graphic novel preview.jpg|Preview cover art.
*There is a fan-made video of ''Armor Testing'' on Bungie.net.<ref>http://youtube.com/watch?v=e0ymFem5EEY</ref>
File:Infinite Succor.jpg|A page from ''[[The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor]]''.
* In ''The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor'', the [[Flood]] look extremely different than the ones in the game, and sport different colors. They also seem to have vines coming out of them. It should be noted that this may be because the [[Flood]] in ''The Last Voyage of the [[Infinite Succor]]'' not only infected [[Humans]] and [[Covenant]] but also infected animals that were stored on the [[Covenant]] ship. In addition, a Grunt is seen in the background firing an Assault Rifle when the Flood attacked R'tas's squad.
File:Spartan-062.jpg|A page from ''[[Armor Testing]]''.
*For some unknown reason, everything about the Covenant seems to be inaccurate in the "Second Sunrise" story such as the plasma swords being able to fire plasma bolts from the end of their blade, plasma rifles having the force of a rocket laucher as it destroyed a car and everything in a 6 foot raduis in one shot, and elites figthing without their helmets before the Great Shcism
File:P12.jpg|A page from ''[[Breaking Quarantine]]''
File:Mombasa skyline.jpg|A page from ''[[Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa]]''.
File:HGN - Lorraine.png|An image of Lorraine McLees' art piece.
File:HGN_CortanaChief.jpg|Art by Scott Fischer.
File:HGN InjuredSpartan.jpg|Art by Craig Mullins.
File:Elite Flood Combat Form (Very Angry).jpg|Art of a Flood-infected Sangheili.
File:HGN Gallery PointmanChief.jpg|Art by Eddie Smith.
</gallery>


== External Links ==
==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources|2}}


==External links==
*[http://nikon.bungie.org/misc/hgn_preview/ Halo Graphic Novel Preview]
*[http://nikon.bungie.org/misc/hgn_preview/ Halo Graphic Novel Preview]


==Sources==
{{HGN}}
<references/>
{{Navbox/Media/Comic}}
 
[[Category:Comics]]
{{Books}}
 
[[Category:Books]]
[[Category:Halo Graphic Novel]]
[[Category:Canon]]
[[Category:Canon]]

Latest revision as of 16:44, July 16, 2024

Halo Graphic Novel
The work-in-progress of the cover for the Halo Graphic Novel.
Attribution information

Author(s):

Lee Hammock, Jay Faerber, Tsutomu Nihei, Brett Lewis, Simon Bisley, Ed Lee, Moebius.

Publication information

Publisher:

Marvel Comics (original)
Dark Horse Comics (New Edition)[1]

Publication date:

July 19, 2006 (original)
December 7, 2021 (New Edition)[1]

Media type:

Print (Hardcover) (original)
Print (Paperback) (New Edition)[1]

Pages:

128 pages

ISBN:

0785123725, 978-0785123729

 

The Halo Graphic Novel is a graphic novel anthology published by Marvel Comics in partnership with Bungie Studios. The Halo series began with the award-winning popular video game Halo: Combat Evolved, which spawned several books as well as video game sequels, and is focused on the story of future humanity fighting against a powerful collective of races called the Covenant. The Halo Graphic Novel is the series' first entry into the sequential art medium, and features aspects of the Halo universe which until then had not been discussed or seen in any medium.

The majority of the book is divided into four short stories by writers and artists from the computer game and comic industries. Each tale focuses on different aspects of the Halo universe, revealing stories that are tangential to the main plot of the game. The book also contains an extensive art gallery compiled of contributions from Bungie, Marvel and independent sources. Released on July 19, 2006, the Halo Graphic Novel was well-received, with reviewers noting the cohesiveness of the work as a whole, as well as the diversity of the individual material. The success of the novel led to Marvel announcing a new limited comic series,[2] which became known as Halo: Uprising.

A new edition of the Halo Graphic Novel, published by Dark Horse Comics, is set for release on December 7, 2021.[1] Originally, its release date was reported by Dark Horse Comics to be August 11, 2021. It was later changed to November 9, 2021. Both release dates were changed with no explanation given.[3]

Background and publication[edit]

Bungie Studios' original concept of the graphic novel was to bring the Halo series into new media beyond that of video games, with sequential art being the main focus.[4] Initially unsuccessful in its pursuit of finding a partner and an effective license agreement, Lorraine McLees—an artist on the Halo development team—suggested that Bungie Studios finance and edit the novel itself before pursuing a publisher. This would allow the studio to maintain control over the content and pursue the venture unencumbered by outside intervention.[4] This also gave the studio greater access to various artists that it hoped would contribute; the novel's executive producer Brian Jarrad noted the procedure of creating the novel independently and outside the "traditional comic process" would prevent the "conflicts of interest and politics and allegiances" that could potentially arise if they approached a publisher or partner first.[4] Lead designer Maria Cabardo created a "dream team" roster of writers and artists Bungie admired, and through a period of negotiation Bungie was able to gain contributions from many of those named on the list.[4] Buoyed by their success in approaching those in the medium that they respected and admired, including British comic book artist Simon Bisley and French artist Jean "Moebius" Giraud, the progress of Halo Graphic Novel was described as a "cool morale boost for our team to see their universe, their characters, realized by people that we idolize in the comic industry."[5]

The novel was completed after a two-year development cycle and Bungie sought out a publisher, eventually approaching Marvel Comics. Bungie cited Marvel's "passion for Halo" and "reach in the comic and publishing industry" as the main draws to the company.[4] The studio worked alongside Marvel director of development Ruwan Jayatilleke, an early champion of the project, to assist in the distribution and publication of the novel.[6][7]

The stories themselves were designed as glimpses into the Halo universe, including information on the inner workings of the alien Covenant, as well as details regarding elements of the back-story that were hitherto undisclosed. Jarrad explained that "The stories that happen off camera, the parallel events to the arcs that our fans know from the existing mediums, are the stories we really wanted to tell."[6] Jarrad further described this as an attempt to move away from the story of the Master Chief, the central character of the franchise, and focus instead on what they believed to be the core themes that lay behind the game universe, such as maintaining hope in the face of overwhelming odds and humanity's struggle for survival; themes that extended beyond "… a genetically enhanced super soldier picking up two guns and kicking some alien butt."[6] The four stories that ended up in the final publication were "the most interesting to Bungie and the writers of [the novel]".[8] Although Bungie created the story arcs present in the Halo Graphic Novel, the studio described the importance of providing a framework for each story that the various artists and writers could tell without jeopardizing their own voice.[6] Artist Simon Bisley said that "the stress was to make the characters look very much as they do in the game. Beyond that point I was given free rein to interpret the script and the action" based on what was given to the artists and writers.[8]

During development of the Halo Graphic Novel, Trautmann set up a franchise group for Halo media and was told that Bungie were unhappy with the creative team, consisting of John Ney Rieber and Adi Granov, and was told by Pete Parsons that Bungie would rather have Alan Moore and Joe Kubert.[9]

Supplemental[edit]

Located after the main body of stories is a selection of art pieces that represent interpretations of the Halo universe from a number of comic book artists. These contributors include Doug Alexander, Rick Berry, Geof Darrow, and more than twenty-five others, both freelance and from Bungie — including lead composer Martin O'Donnell.[10]

A few promotional pieces were created before the Halo Graphic Novel's release date, including a sixteen-page preview, released May 31, 2006, which contained Bungie's introductions to each story along with short excerpts of each story.[11] A full-color poster of the book's cover was released on June 28, 2006.[12]

Stories[edit]

The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor[edit]

Main article: The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor

This story takes place during the events of Halo: Combat Evolved. When communications from a Mjern-pattern agricultural support ship, the Infinite Succor, are mysteriously terminated, Special Operations Commander Rtas 'Vadumee, also known as Half-Jaw, and his squad of Special Force are sent to investigate. What they find is a peril more deadly and terrifying than any human threat; creatures never officially seen before by Covenant nor human eyes alike.

Armor Testing[edit]

Main article: Armor Testing

Set just before the events of Halo 2, Armor Testing tells the story of Maria-062 who tested the MJOLNIR Mark VI armor before it was handed over to John-117.

Breaking Quarantine[edit]

Main article: Breaking Quarantine

One of the untold tales from Halo is Sergeant Johnson's escape from the clutches of the Flood menace. It reveals how one of the UNSC's toughest Marines got out of an inescapable trap. It also resembles Japanese comics as the artist who drew it was Tsutomu Nikei, even as he tried to avoid it being too 'Manga-ish'. He enjoys how Americans are more 'gun friendly'. The story is written in Japanese lettering.

Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa[edit]

Main article: Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa

One of the first depictions of civilian life in the Halo universe, Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa follows the Covenant invasion of Mombasa from the viewpoint of Benjamin Giraud, a journalist and war photographer in the employ of ONI's Section II. The story was illustrated by Jean "Moebius" Giraud.

Page 122[edit]

Page 122 of the Halo: Graphic Novel. Detailing Johnson.
Pg 122, an intriguing piece of gallery art.
Main article: Halo Graphic Novel, Page 122

A puzzle of valuable information about the Spartan program and Sergeant Avery Johnson. In the Gallery Art in the Halo Graphic Novel, Pg122, there is a page with two main boxes of text along with pictures and maps of Operation: KALEIDOSCOPE. The text boxes contain one chat log between two people and the other appears to be a log of a data query.

The identities of persons mentioned by the two users (identified as 'mike44236' and 'echo23023') can be determined by translating their military format designations (which appear to be based upon the current NATO phonetic alphabet). For example, when mike44236 refers to an "interest spike on alpha juliett juliett 20114," he is obviously referring to Johnson. If one examines the 'Project: ORION\RESTRICTED ACCESS' emblem in the upper left-hand corner, Johnson's name is listed below the skull symbol as 'CRPL Johnson, Avery Junior.' Below that is his service number (48789-20114-AJ). The numeric string '20114' is present in both the chat box and operative summary. Thus, 'alpha juliett juliett 20114' can be translated as 'Avery Johnson Junior 20114.' The matter of Johnson's name being listed in two different formats (sometimes as Avery J. Johnson) with two service numbers ending in different numeric sequences, has yet to be explained.

Subsequently, in the following lines of dialogue, 'charlie hotel 4695' can be translated as 'Catherine Halsey 4695' (her Civilian Identification Number is 10141-026-SRB4695). Also, 'juliett alpha 20101' likely refers to Colonel James Ackerson.

Surrounding the boxes are pictures and maps of above mentioned operation and other related smaller text areas. The information provided by the combination of these logs seem to imply that Sergeant Avery Johnson is a Spartan from the ORION (Spartan-I) program. The image itself looks like a shot of someone's desk.

Reception[edit]

Critical reaction from both the gaming community and the comic book community was positive. UGO Networks praised the novel, citing the wealth of contributions from recognized artists and the strength of the material in fleshing out the Halo universe as the work's greatest strength.[13][14] Mike Deeley of Comics Bulletin lauded the book for the diverse range of storytelling and art styles that lent the Halo Graphic Novel the feel of an anthology yet still retained a cohesive whole.[15] Other areas that received particular attention included Tsutomu Nihei's work on Breaking Quarantine for its vivid imagery and its focus on visual storytelling in lieu of any dialogue.[16]

Some reviewers expressed their disappointment at the novel's focus on minor characters and events, with the presence of the Master Chief—the central character of the Halo series and its most iconic figure—limited to featuring in artwork and a brief appearance in the first story.[17] On the other hand, GameTrailers praised Bungie for having the moxie to not focus on the major character.[16] Each publication had their own opinions on the weakest story in the collection; both IGN and GameTrailers thought that "Armor Testing" had the least emotional impact, although its surprise ending and art were well done.[14][16]

Upon release, the Halo Graphic Novel proved to be a "rare hit" for the games-to-comics genre,[18] debuting at #2 on both the Nielsen BookScan and Diamond sales charts.[19] At least 100,000 copies were rumored to have been published,[18] and the comic continued to be one of the top-selling graphic novels months after its debut.[20] The success of the novel led Marvel Comics and Bungie Studios to announce a four-issue monthly Halo comic series at San Diego Comic-Con 2006 called Halo: Uprising.[2] Despite delays, the first issue of the limited series was released on August 22, 2007.[21]

Artist credits[edit]

Story artists[edit]

Gallery[edit]

In the Halo Graphic Novel, there is a section after the stories called "Gallery" which shows off a selection of visions of the Halo universe from Bungie, Marvel and other artists, created solely for this book. Below is a full list of who they are and what they drew in the HGN:

Marvel and other artists[edit]

Bungie artists[edit]

Frankie made this take on Dutch Artist M. C. Escher's famous drawing for the book.
  • Chris Barrett - A Covenant Elite holding a plasma rifle.
  • Rick Berry - An unknown Covenant soldier in a dark environment. Possibly a Hunter or an Elite of some sort.
  • Frank Capezzutto III - A plasma grenade nearly missing a trio of UNSC Marines, including L. Jenkins and L. P. B..
  • Tom Doyle - Master Chief holding a crying child with a dead Elite on the floor, staring at the invading fleet above New Mombasa.
  • Issac Hannaford - A UNSC ODST meets a roaring Brute.
  • Shi Kai Wang - The Prophet of Truth holding his head, exasperated.
  • Lorraine McLees - Master Chief with a full assortment of every human weapon available with ammo clips (including mounted machine guns, flamethrower and an energy sword handle) with a Pelican, two different Warthogs, two Longswords and an ODST Helljumper team of eight in the background.
  • Robert McLees - Battle and conversation reports.
  • Frank O'Connor - A hand holding a reflective sphere, the picture is the Mister Chief in his room. Bungie recently released the picture on Bungie.net, Mister Chief .
  • Eddie Smith - Master Chief appearing in the light through a doorway surrounded by rubble.
  • Craig Mullins - Master Chief pausing to observe a raging battle.
  • George Pratt - Master Chief aiming a Particle Beam Rifle.
  • Juan Ramirez - A heavily stylized image of three marines fighting a Brute and a Grunt.
  • Greg Staples - Another heavily stylized image, this time of Master Chief firing an assault rifle at several Covenant on a slanted ground (implying he is on Halo) with several Banshees, Covenant cruisers, and a planet in the background.
  • Tsutomu Nihei - A roaring Flood Elite combat form.
  • Scott Fischer - Master Chief standing behind a realistic depiction of Cortana.
  • Geof Darrow - A two-page spread of Master Chief standing over a destroyed Flood Pod infector holding two SMGs, with dozens more Pod infectors coming up behind him.
  • Paul Russel - He drew a small comic, Shore Leave, at the end of the book.

Gallery[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d Penguin Random House, Halo Graphic Novel (New Edition) by Microsoft
  2. ^ a b IGN, San Diego 2006 Comic-Con Announcement
  3. ^ Comicbook, Dark Horse Announces New Edition of Original Halo Graphic Novel (Retrieved on Sep 18, 2021) [archive]
  4. ^ a b c d e IGN, Exploring the Halo Graphic Novel (Part I)
  5. ^ Edge Magazine, Inside Bungie
  6. ^ a b c d Newsarama, Inside the Halo Graphic Novel
  7. ^ Bungie.net, Bungie Official Announcement (Retrieved on Oct 13, 2014) [archive]
  8. ^ a b USA Today, The non-stop 'Halo' effect
  9. ^ The Sci Fi Show, Episode 005: DC Reboot/Eric Trautmann
  10. ^ Halo.Bungie.Org, "Halo Graphic Novel Preview": Front Cover
  11. ^ Halo.Bungie.Org, "Halo Graphic Novel Preview"
  12. ^ IGN, "Halo Graphic Novel Poster Preview"
  13. ^ UGO, Review
  14. ^ a b IGN Review, Halo Graphic Novel
  15. ^ Silver Bullet, Comics Review
  16. ^ a b c GameTrailers, Halo Graphic Novel Review
  17. ^ Firingsquad, Firingsquad Review
  18. ^ a b Publisher's Weekly, HALO GN selling like hotcakes
  19. ^ Newsarama, July 2006 Sales Reports
  20. ^ Newsarama, August 2006 Sales Charts
  21. ^ Marvel Comics, Catalog: Halo Uprising #1

External links[edit]

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