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{{Title|''Halo Online''}}
{{Title|''Halo Online''}}
{{Era|RW}}
{{Status|RealWorld}}
{{Game Infobox
{{Game infobox
|name= ''Halo Online''
|name= ''Halo Online''
|image= [[File:Halo Online logo.jpg|300px]]
|image= [[File:Halo Online logo.jpg|300px]]
|developer= [[Saber Interactive]]<br>Innova Systems
|developer= [[Saber Interactive]]<br>Innova Systems
|publisher= [[Microsoft Studios]]
|publisher= [[Microsoft Studios]]
|engine=[[Blam engine]]
|platform= [[PC]]
|platform= [[PC]]
|releasedate=Cancelled
|releasedate=Cancelled
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}}
}}


'''''Halo Online''''' was to be a multiplayer-focused ''Halo'' game developed by [[Saber Interactive]] and Innova Systems in collaboration with [[343 Industries]].<ref name="waypoint">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/community/blog-posts/halo-online-closed-beta-launching-in-russia '''Halo Waypoint''': '' Halo Online Closed Beta Launching in Russia'']</ref> It was officially announced in [[2015|March 25, 2015]], with a closed Alpha test that started on [[2015|April 21, 2015]] in Russia only.<ref name="waypoint"/> On [[2015|December 28, 2015]], a closed Beta test was suspended and on [[2016|August 24, 2016]], cancellation of the game in its current form was announced.
'''''Halo Online''''' was to be a multiplayer-focused ''Halo'' game developed by [[Saber Interactive]] and Innova Systems in collaboration with [[343 Industries]].<ref name="waypoint">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/community/blog-posts/halo-online-closed-beta-launching-in-russia '''Halo Waypoint''': '' Halo Online Closed Beta Launching in Russia'']</ref> It was officially announced on [[2015|March 25, 2015]], with a closed Alpha test that started on [[2015|April 21, 2015]] in Russia only.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}} On [[2015|December 28, 2015]], a closed Beta test was suspended and on [[2016|August 24, 2016]], cancellation of the game in its current form was announced.


==Synopsis==
==Synopsis==
''Halo Online'' takes place shortly after the events of ''Halo 3'' around January 28, [[2555]].<ref name="ign">[http://ca.ign.com/articles/2015/03/25/halo-online-is-a-free-to-play-pc-shooter-coming-only-to-russia '''IGN''': ''Halo Online Is a Free-to-Play PC Shooter Coming Only to Russia'']</ref> The game is set on a secret [[UNSC]] space installation called [[Anvil Station|Anvil]], where [[SPARTAN-IV program|SPARTAN-IV]] and [[Sangheili]] soldiers train together in [[War Games|simulated war exercises]] to sharpen their battle skills and test experimental technology.<ref name="waypoint"/>
''Halo Online'' takes place shortly after the events of ''Halo 3'' around January 28, [[2555]].<ref name="ign">[http://ca.ign.com/articles/2015/03/25/halo-online-is-a-free-to-play-pc-shooter-coming-only-to-russia '''IGN''': ''Halo Online Is a Free-to-Play PC Shooter Coming Only to Russia'']</ref> The game is set on a secret [[UNSC]] space installation called [[Anvil Station|Anvil]], where [[SPARTAN-IV program|SPARTAN-IV]] and [[Sangheili]] soldiers train together in [[War Games|simulated war exercises]] to sharpen their battle skills and test experimental technology.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}


==Appearances==
==Appearances==
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******[[Precinct 13]] {{1st}}
******[[Precinct 13]] {{1st}}
|title-5=Events|
|title-5=Events|
*[[Human-Covenant war]]
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
**[[Defense of Concord]] {{C|Indirect mention}}
**[[Defense of Concord]] {{C|Indirect mention}}
*[[Treaty of 2552]]
*[[Treaty of 2552]]
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===Human===
===Human===
*[[AV-14 Hornet]]
*[[AV-14 Hornet]]
*{{Class|CCS|battlecruiser}}
 
*{{Class|Charon|light frigate}}
*{{Class|Charon|light frigate}}
**{{UNSCShip|Aegis Fate}}
**{{UNSCShip|Aegis Fate}}
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**[[M12 Chaingun Warthog]]
**[[M12 Chaingun Warthog]]
*[[M274 Mongoose]]
*[[M274 Mongoose]]
*[[M808 Scorpion]]
*[[M808C Scorpion]]
*[[Space station]]
*[[Space station]]
**[[Anvil Station]]
**[[Anvil Station]]


===Covenant===
===Covenant===
*[[Type-25 Chopper]]
*{{Pattern|Ket|battlecruiser}}
*[[Barukaza Workshop Chopper]]
*[[Type-26 Banshee|Type-26B Banshee]]
*[[Type-26 Banshee|Type-26B Banshee]]
*[[Type-26 Wraith]]
*{{Pattern|Zurdo|Wraith}}
*[[Type-32 Ghost]]
*{{Pattern|Karo'etba|Ghost}}
*[[Qavardu Workshop Prowler]]
|title-7=Weapons|
|title-7=Weapons|
===Human===
===Human===
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*[[M395 DMR]]
*[[M395 DMR]]
*[[M41 rocket launcher]]
*[[M41 rocket launcher]]
*[[M45 shotgun#M45D Tactical Shotgun|M45D shotgun]]
*[[M45D shotgun]]
*[[M6 Spartan Laser]]
*[[M6 Spartan Laser]]
*[[M6C/SOCOM]]
*[[M6C/SOCOM]]
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===Covenant===
===Covenant===
*[[Type-1 energy sword]]
*[[Type-1 energy sword]]
*[[Type-1 plasma grenade]]
*{{Pattern|Anskum|plasma grenade}}
*[[Type-2 gravity hammer]]
*[[Gravity hammer (fiction)|gravity hammer]]
*[[Type-2 spike grenade]]
*[[Type-2 spike grenade]]
*[[Type-3 firebomb]]
*[[Orgudam Workshop firebomb]]
*[[Type-25 plasma rifle]]
*{{Pattern|Okarda'phaa|plasma rifle}}
*[[Type-25 Brute plasma rifle]]
*{{Pattern|Kewu R'shi'k|plasma rifle}}
*[[Type-25 Brute Shot]]
*[[Type-25 Brute Shot]]
*[[Type-25 Spiker]]
*[[Paegaas Workshop Spiker]]
*[[Type-25 plasma pistol]]
*[[Type-25 plasma pistol]]
*[[Type-27 beam rifle]]
*{{Pattern|Zubo|beam rifle}}
*[[Type-33 Needler]]
*[[Type-33 Needler]]
*[[Type-51 carbine]]
*{{Pattern|Mosa|carbine}}
*[[Type-52 Mauler]]
*[[Type-52 Mauler]]


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*[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor (GEN2)|MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor [GEN2]]]
*[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor (GEN2)|MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor [GEN2]]]
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/AA variant|Air Assault]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/AA variant|Air Assault]] variant
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Breaker]] variant
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Breaker]] variant
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Buzzsaw]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Buzzsaw]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Cain]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Cain]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Caladcholg]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Caladcholg]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Cyclops]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Cyclops]] variant {{1st}}
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Defender|Defender]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Defender|Defender]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/EOD variant|EOD]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/EOD variant|EOD]] variant
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Flenser]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Flenser]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Gunslinger]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Gunslinger]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Halberd]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Halberd]] variant {{1st}}
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Hoplite|Hoplite]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Hoplite|Hoplite]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Infiltrator|Infiltrator]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Infiltrator|Infiltrator]] variant
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Inquisitor]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Inquisitor]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Juggernaut]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Juggernaut]] variant {{1st}}
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mirmillion|Mirmillion]] variant {{1st}}
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mirmillion|Mirmillion]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Mongoose]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Mongoose]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Ninja]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Ninja]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Omni]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Omni]] variant {{1st}}
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Operator|Operator]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Operator|Operator]] variant
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Oracle]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Oracle]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Paladin]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Paladin]] variant {{1st}}
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Pioneer|Pioneer]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Pioneer|Pioneer]] variant
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Rampart]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Rampart]] variant {{1st}}
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Ranger|Ranger]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Ranger|Ranger]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Reaper|Reaper]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Reaper|Reaper]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/R variant|Recon]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/R variant|Recon]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Recruit|Recruit]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Recruit|Recruit]] variant
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Renegade]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Renegade]] variant {{1st}}
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/A variant|Rogue]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/A variant|Rogue]] variant
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Samurai]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Samurai]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Sceptre]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Sceptre]] variant {{1st}}
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/S variant|Scout]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/S variant|Scout]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Soldier|Soldier]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Soldier|Soldier]] variant
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Spectrum]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Spectrum]] variant {{1st}}
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Strider|Strider]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Strider|Strider]] variant
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Tremor]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Tremor]] variant {{1st}}
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Venator|Venator]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Venator|Venator]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Void Dancer|Void Dancer]] variant  
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Void Dancer|Void Dancer]] variant  
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/War Master|War Master]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/War Master|War Master]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Warrior|Warrior]] variant
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Warrior|Warrior]] variant
**[[Armor permutations (Halo Online)|Widow Maker]] variant {{1st}}
**[[Armor customization (Halo Online)|Widow Maker]] variant {{1st}}
*[[ODST armor]] {{Mo}}
*[[ODST armor]] {{Mo}}
*[[Overshield]]
*[[Overshield]]
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*[[TR/9 trip mine]]
*[[TR/9 trip mine]]
*[[Type-27 hologram]]
*[[Type-27 hologram]]
*[[Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance‎]]
*[[Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance]]
*[[Z-2500 Autosentry]]
*[[Z-2500 Autosentry]]
*[[Z-4190 bubble shield]]
*[[Z-4190 bubble shield]]
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==Gameplay==
==Gameplay==
''Halo Online'' was to include "classic weapons and vehicles" from the ''Halo'' franchise, including the [[AV-14 Hornet|Hornet]] and the [[Type-1 energy sword|energy sword]].<ref name="ign"/> Several new weapons were also to be implemented into the game.<ref name="trailer">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=612_qzVHRQg '''YouTube''': ''Halo Online Announce Trailer'']</ref> Fan favorite multiplayer maps were to return, along with several new maps—one of which was set in a [[Wikipedia:Russia|Russian]] town. ''Halo Online'' would have been optimized for keyboard and mouse controls. Online matches could handle up to sixteen players, with four players being required for a match.<ref name="ign"/>
''Halo Online'' was to include "classic weapons and vehicles" from the ''Halo'' franchise, including the [[AV-14 Hornet|Hornet]] and the [[Type-1 energy sword|energy sword]].{{Ref/Reuse|ign}} Several new weapons were also to be implemented into the game.<ref name="trailer">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=612_qzVHRQg '''YouTube''': ''Halo Online Announce Trailer'']</ref> Fan favorite multiplayer maps were to return, along with several new maps—one of which was set in a [[Wikipedia:Russia|Russian]] town. ''Halo Online'' would have been optimized for keyboard and mouse controls. Online matches could handle up to sixteen players, with four players being required for a match.{{Ref/Reuse|ign}}


Players were to be able to customize their loadouts, including armor, weapons and abilities. There were several variants of each weapon available for modification. Each weapon featured variants with increased damage, accuracy, and rate of fire.<ref name="trailer"/> Unlike most of Halo games, players would not be able to change their armor pieces individually, only as a whole set.
Players were to be able to customize their loadouts, including armor, weapons and abilities. There were several variants of each weapon available for modification. Each weapon featured variants with increased damage, accuracy, and rate of fire.{{Ref/Reuse|trailer}} Unlike most of Halo games, players would not be able to change their armor pieces individually, only as a whole set.


Similar to ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'' there was an ending animation for a match. Though in ''Halo Online'' it featured only the top three players rather than the entire team.
Similar to ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'' there was an ending animation for a match. Though in ''Halo Online'' it featured only the top three players rather than the entire team.


===Professions===
===Professions===
In ''Halo Online'' three professions were available to the player: Assault, Sharpshooter, and Tactical. These professions dictated the player's starting equipment, such as primary weapon and armor<ref name="How to play">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3VMtDpW89Y '''YouTube''': ''Halo Online Tutorial'']</ref>
In ''Halo Online'' three professions were available to the player: Assault, Sharpshooter, and Tactical. These professions dictated the player's starting equipment, such as primary weapon and armor.<ref name="How to play">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3VMtDpW89Y '''YouTube''': ''Halo Online Tutorial'']</ref>


===Multiplayer maps===
===Multiplayer maps===
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====Original Maps====
====Original Maps====
*[[Diamondback]] - a desert-themed remake of ''[[Halo 3]]''{{'}}s [[Avalanche]].
*[[Diamondback]] - a desert-themed remake of ''[[Halo 3]]''{{'}}s [[Avalanche]].
*[[Edge]] - a small-team original map to ''Halo Online''.
*[[Edge]] - a forerunner-themed original map to ''Halo Online'' later ported into ''Halo: The Master Chief Collection''.
*[[Icebox]] - an ice-themed remake of ''[[Halo 2]]''{{'}}s [[Turf]].
*[[Icebox]] - an ice-themed remake of ''[[Halo 2]]''{{'}}s [[Turf]] later ported into ''Halo: The Master Chief Collection''.
*[[Reactor (Halo Online map)|Reactor]] - A big-team original map to ''Halo Online''.
*[[Reactor (Halo Online map)|Reactor]] - A big-team map original to ''Halo Online''.
*[[Sky bridge]] - an original map design for ''Halo Online'' that never made its way into public builds of the game.
*[[Sky bridge]] - an original map design for ''Halo Online'' that never made its way into public builds of the game.
*[[Waterfall]] - an original map design later ported into ''Halo: The Master Chief Collection''.


====Halo 3 Maps====
====Halo 3 Maps====
These maps were direct ports of ''Halo 3'' multiplayer maps, albeit renamed.
These maps were direct ports of ''Halo 3'' multiplayer maps, some of which were renamed.
*[[Narrows|Bridge]]
*[[Narrows|Bridge]]
*[[Standoff|Closed Area]]
*[[Standoff|Closed Area]]
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=== Armor permutations ===
=== Armor permutations ===
{{main|Armor permutations (Halo Online)}}
{{Main|Armor customization (Halo Online)}}
There were two player models which players could choose from, the standard [[SPARTAN-II Program|SPARTAN]] model or an [[Sangheili|Elite]] model. Each model had several armor sets. Each armor set had different effects on gameplay, such as an increased motion tracker range or melee damage boost.
There were two player models which players could choose from, the standard [[SPARTAN-II Program|SPARTAN]] model or an [[Sangheili|Elite]] model. Each model had several armor sets. Each armor set had different effects on gameplay, such as an increased motion tracker range or melee damage boost.


==Development==
==Development==
''Halo Online'' was powered by a highly modified version of the ''[[Halo 3]]'' engine, optimized for smooth performance on lower-end PCs.<ref name="waypoint"/>
''Halo Online'' was powered by a highly modified version of the ''[[Halo 3]]'' engine, optimized for smooth performance on lower-end PCs.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}


===Closed Alpha===
===Closed Alpha===
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===2015 build scrapped===
===2015 build scrapped===
On August 24, 2016 Innova Systems announced that Microsoft Studios still had not made a decision on the project's fate, and the game would never be released in its current form, making the project's fate uncertain. Therefore the publisher is shutting down the game's website and the page on social network vk.com.<ref name="The end of Spartan era">[https://vk.com/wall-79914897_58446 ''The end of Spartan era'']</ref> The community manager of Halo Online stated that "such project most likely won't ever exist at all, but only time will show", answering the question if the game is suspended indefinitely.
On August 24, 2016 Innova Systems announced that Microsoft Studios still had not made a decision on the project's fate, and the game would never be released in its current form, making the project's fate uncertain. Therefore the publisher is shutting down the game's website and the page on social network vk.com.<ref name="The end of Spartan era">[https://vk.com/wall-79914897_58446 ''The end of Spartan era'']</ref> The community manager of Halo Online stated that "such project most likely won't ever exist at all, but only time will show", answering the question if the game is suspended indefinitely.


==ElDewrito==
==ElDewrito==
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During the ''Halo Online'' closed testing, a group of [[Modding|modders]] were able to mod the game and began to work on "ElDewrito", a fan-attempt to bring the classic ''Halo'' experience to the PC platform by modding the game to play like the original release of ''Halo 3''. In April 2018, version 0.6 of the mod released to widespread community acclaim, reaching 12,000 concurrent players.<ref name="eldewrito future">[https://blog.eldewrito.com/post/183642178153/eldewrito-the-future-of-the-mod-and-our ''Eldewrito'': ElDewrito: The Future of the Mod, And our Involvement with 343 on MCC PC.]</ref> Four days following the release of ElDewrito 0.6, the members of the team were contacted by 343 Industries including [[Frank O'Connor]], whereupon they were asked to ''pause'' development of the mod, and were not given an official cease and desist or DMCA takedown.<ref name="eldewrito pause">[https://blog.eldewrito.com/post/173283810663/microsofts-legal-action-and-the-future-of ''Eldewrito'': Microsoft’s Legal Action and the Future of ElDewrito]</ref> An official statement was given by 343 Industries the same day, explaining that the mod was taken down due to legal requirements to protect Microsoft intellectual property.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/eldewrito-community-content ''Halo Waypoint'': ELDEWRITO & COMMUNITY CONTENT]</ref>
During the ''Halo Online'' closed testing, a group of [[Modding|modders]] were able to mod the game and began to work on "ElDewrito", a fan-attempt to bring the classic ''Halo'' experience to the PC platform by modding the game to play like the original release of ''Halo 3''. In April 2018, version 0.6 of the mod released to widespread community acclaim, reaching 12,000 concurrent players.<ref name="eldewrito future">[https://blog.eldewrito.com/post/183642178153/eldewrito-the-future-of-the-mod-and-our ''Eldewrito'': ElDewrito: The Future of the Mod, And our Involvement with 343 on MCC PC.]</ref> Four days following the release of ElDewrito 0.6, the members of the team were contacted by 343 Industries including [[Frank O'Connor]], whereupon they were asked to ''pause'' development of the mod, and were not given an official cease and desist or DMCA takedown.<ref name="eldewrito pause">[https://blog.eldewrito.com/post/173283810663/microsofts-legal-action-and-the-future-of ''Eldewrito'': Microsoft’s Legal Action and the Future of ElDewrito]</ref> An official statement was given by 343 Industries the same day, explaining that the mod was taken down due to legal requirements to protect Microsoft intellectual property.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/eldewrito-community-content ''Halo Waypoint'': ELDEWRITO & COMMUNITY CONTENT]</ref>


Despite this, 343 Industries retained communications for the team, expressing their admiration for ElDewrito's success and informing that the interest in ''Halo'' on PC had "lit a spark" for the company. While ''[[Halo: The Master Chief Collection]]'' had been intended for a release on PC eventually, the ElDewrito project was responsible for giving 343 the "kick in the pants" needed to begin development of the PC port of ''Master Chief Collection'' when they did. In March [[2019]], the ''Master Chief Collection'' was announced for a release on [[Steam]] and [[Windows]], with the ElDewrito team working alongside 343 in an advisory role to help bring the ''Master Chief Collection'' experience to the PC platform.<ref name="eldewrito future"/>
Despite this, 343 Industries retained communications for the team, expressing their admiration for ElDewrito's success and informing that the interest in ''Halo'' on PC had "lit a spark" for the company. While ''[[Halo: The Master Chief Collection]]'' had been intended for a release on PC eventually, the ElDewrito project was responsible for giving 343 the "kick in the pants" needed to begin development of the PC port of ''Master Chief Collection'' when they did. In March [[2019]], the ''Master Chief Collection'' was announced for a release on [[Steam]] and [[Windows]], with the ElDewrito team working alongside 343 in an advisory role to help bring the ''Master Chief Collection'' experience to the PC platform.{{Ref/Reuse|eldewrito future}}


On December 15, [[2020]], it was revealed MCC [[Season 5: Anvil]] would include twelve armor permutations that originally came from ''Halo Online'', such as Demo, Suture, and Compass Mjolnir armors.{{Ref/Site|Id=MCCRetro2020|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/mcc-development-retrospective-december-2020|SiteName=Halo Waypoint|PageName=News, MCC Development Retrospective - December 2020}}
On December 15, [[2020]], it was revealed MCC [[Series 5: Anvil]] would include twelve armor permutations that originally came from ''Halo Online'', such as Demo, Suture, and Compass Mjolnir armors.{{Ref/Site|Id=MCCRetro2020|D=01|M=6|Y=2020|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/mcc-development-retrospective-december-2020|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=News, MCC Development Retrospective - December 2020}}


==Marketing==
==Marketing==
===Announce trailer===
===Announce trailer===
{{Main|Halo Online Announce Trailer}}
{{Main|Halo Online Announce Trailer}}
An announcement trailer was revealed in March 26, 2015 on YouTube, showing the first in-game gameplay of ''Halo: Online'', displaying the return of some weapons of ''Halo 3'' and the introduction of new armors.<ref name="trailer"/>
An announcement trailer was revealed in March 26, 2015 on YouTube, showing the first in-game gameplay of ''Halo: Online'', displaying the return of some weapons of ''Halo 3'' and the introduction of new armors.{{Ref/Reuse|trailer}}


===Press Conference (March 26th 2015)===
===Press Conference (March 26th 2015)===
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</gallery>
</gallery>


===Normal Gallery===
===Concept art===
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:HO CovenantHangar Menu Concept.jpg|Concept art for a Covenant-themed hangar bay serving as a backdrop for the main menu.
File:HO CovenantHangar Menu Concept.jpg|Concept art for a Covenant-themed hangar bay serving as a backdrop for the main menu.
Line 279: Line 284:
File:HO_Mushroom_Concept.jpg|Concept art for mushrooms.
File:HO_Mushroom_Concept.jpg|Concept art for mushrooms.
File:Halo Online.jpg|Concept art of ''Halo Online''.
File:Halo Online.jpg|Concept art of ''Halo Online''.
</gallery>
===Promotional images===
<gallery>
File:Halo Online Armors.png|SPARTAN-IVs on the game's website.
File:Halo Online Armors.png|SPARTAN-IVs on the game's website.
File:Halo_Online_Site_Air_Assault.png|Landing armor that was originally on the ''Halo Online'' site.
File:Halo_Online_Site_Air_Assault.png|Landing armor that was originally on the ''Halo Online'' site.
File:HaloOnline Armour AirAssault Blue Render.png|The Landing armor in ''Halo Online'' closed alpha build.
File:HaloOnline Armour AirAssault Blue Render.png|The Landing armor in ''Halo Online'' closed alpha build.
File:Halo online shutting down post.png|The shutdown email users received when the game was cancelled
File:Halo online email image shutdown combined.png|The background of the email users received during Halo Online's shutdown
File:Ho headphones.jpg|Halo Online Headphones
File:Ho headphones 2.jpg|Halo Online Headphones Alt
</gallery>
</gallery>


===Development gallery===
===Development gallery===
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:Halo Online Secret Update.jpg|A developers look into the Armory of Anvil Station. (October 9, 2015)
File:Halo Online Secret Update.jpg|A developer look into the Armory of Anvil Station. (October 9, 2015)
File:Halo Online Warthog art.jpg|A developer concept of the Halo Online Warthog.
File:Halo Online DMR art.jpg|Halo Online DMR Concept Art
File:Halo Online AR art.jpg|Halo Online AR Concept Art
</gallery>
</gallery>


===Pre-Alpha Weapons===
===Pre-Alpha Weapons===
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File:HO-DMGM6H.jpg
File:HO-DMGM6H.jpg
File:HO-GoldenM6H.jpg
File:HO-GoldenM6H.jpg
</gallery>
</gallery>


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==Sources==
==Sources==
<references/>
{{Ref/Sources}}


{{Navbox/Media/Games}}
{{Navbox/Media/Games}}
 
{{DEFAULTSORT:Online, Halo}}
[[Category:Halo Online| ]]
[[Category:Halo Online| ]]
[[Category:Cancelled games]]

Latest revision as of 15:29, November 19, 2024

Halo Online
Halo Online logo.jpg

Developer(s):

Saber Interactive
Innova Systems

Publisher(s):

Microsoft Studios

Engine:

Blam engine

Platform(s):

PC

Release date(s):

Cancelled

Genre(s):

First-person shooter

Mode(s):

Multiplayer

 

Halo Online was to be a multiplayer-focused Halo game developed by Saber Interactive and Innova Systems in collaboration with 343 Industries.[1] It was officially announced on March 25, 2015, with a closed Alpha test that started on April 21, 2015 in Russia only.[1] On December 28, 2015, a closed Beta test was suspended and on August 24, 2016, cancellation of the game in its current form was announced.

Synopsis[edit]

Halo Online takes place shortly after the events of Halo 3 around January 28, 2555.[2] The game is set on a secret UNSC space installation called Anvil, where SPARTAN-IV and Sangheili soldiers train together in simulated war exercises to sharpen their battle skills and test experimental technology.[1]

Appearances[edit]

Characters

Human

Sangheili

Species and entities

Organizations

Human

Alien

Locations

Events

Vehicles

Human

Covenant

Weapons

Human

Covenant

Forerunner

Technology and equipment



Gameplay[edit]

Halo Online was to include "classic weapons and vehicles" from the Halo franchise, including the Hornet and the energy sword.[2] Several new weapons were also to be implemented into the game.[3] Fan favorite multiplayer maps were to return, along with several new maps—one of which was set in a Russian town. Halo Online would have been optimized for keyboard and mouse controls. Online matches could handle up to sixteen players, with four players being required for a match.[2]

Players were to be able to customize their loadouts, including armor, weapons and abilities. There were several variants of each weapon available for modification. Each weapon featured variants with increased damage, accuracy, and rate of fire.[3] Unlike most of Halo games, players would not be able to change their armor pieces individually, only as a whole set.

Similar to Halo 5: Guardians there was an ending animation for a match. Though in Halo Online it featured only the top three players rather than the entire team.

Professions[edit]

In Halo Online three professions were available to the player: Assault, Sharpshooter, and Tactical. These professions dictated the player's starting equipment, such as primary weapon and armor.[4]

Multiplayer maps[edit]

Halo Online featured a number of multiplayer maps, some original to the game and others remakes or direct ports of maps from other Halo games. In addition to a number of maps that were cut, the following maps were planned for release:

Original Maps[edit]

  • Diamondback - a desert-themed remake of Halo 3's Avalanche.
  • Edge - a forerunner-themed original map to Halo Online later ported into Halo: The Master Chief Collection.
  • Icebox - an ice-themed remake of Halo 2's Turf later ported into Halo: The Master Chief Collection.
  • Reactor - A big-team map original to Halo Online.
  • Sky bridge - an original map design for Halo Online that never made its way into public builds of the game.
  • Waterfall - an original map design later ported into Halo: The Master Chief Collection.

Halo 3 Maps[edit]

These maps were direct ports of Halo 3 multiplayer maps, some of which were renamed.

Armor permutations[edit]

Main article: Armor customization (Halo Online)

There were two player models which players could choose from, the standard SPARTAN model or an Elite model. Each model had several armor sets. Each armor set had different effects on gameplay, such as an increased motion tracker range or melee damage boost.

Development[edit]

Halo Online was powered by a highly modified version of the Halo 3 engine, optimized for smooth performance on lower-end PCs.[1]

Closed Alpha[edit]

Main article: Halo Online Closed Alpha

On April 6, 2015 the Halo Online closed Alpha test started,[5] and a special armor was given to people who played on that day during the Alpha to signify they were there day one. The Closed Alpha's servers were only active for small hours during the day. All players' stats and progress, were wiped after the closed alpha finished on September 11, 2015[6]

Closed Beta[edit]

Main article: Halo Online Beta

On September 30, 2015 the closed beta started, and on December 28, 2015, the closed Beta test was suspended. The developers said that they encountered serious problems during the development of Halo Online, and with 343 Industries' counsel they decided to suspend testing and "send the game to a serious revision" for several months. Because of that, for people who bought the exclusive premium Beta tester kits, there was a compensation offer.

Unreleased updates[edit]

On October 9, 2015 a developer took an image of an upcoming update that had the user in an Armory on Anvil Station.

Future testing[edit]

On March 24, 2016 it was announced that testing was to resume, and that an exact date, and detailed information about development would be announced on the official Halo Online VK account at a later date.[7]

2015 build scrapped[edit]

On August 24, 2016 Innova Systems announced that Microsoft Studios still had not made a decision on the project's fate, and the game would never be released in its current form, making the project's fate uncertain. Therefore the publisher is shutting down the game's website and the page on social network vk.com.[8] The community manager of Halo Online stated that "such project most likely won't ever exist at all, but only time will show", answering the question if the game is suspended indefinitely.


ElDewrito[edit]

During the Halo Online closed testing, a group of modders were able to mod the game and began to work on "ElDewrito", a fan-attempt to bring the classic Halo experience to the PC platform by modding the game to play like the original release of Halo 3. In April 2018, version 0.6 of the mod released to widespread community acclaim, reaching 12,000 concurrent players.[9] Four days following the release of ElDewrito 0.6, the members of the team were contacted by 343 Industries including Frank O'Connor, whereupon they were asked to pause development of the mod, and were not given an official cease and desist or DMCA takedown.[10] An official statement was given by 343 Industries the same day, explaining that the mod was taken down due to legal requirements to protect Microsoft intellectual property.[11]

Despite this, 343 Industries retained communications for the team, expressing their admiration for ElDewrito's success and informing that the interest in Halo on PC had "lit a spark" for the company. While Halo: The Master Chief Collection had been intended for a release on PC eventually, the ElDewrito project was responsible for giving 343 the "kick in the pants" needed to begin development of the PC port of Master Chief Collection when they did. In March 2019, the Master Chief Collection was announced for a release on Steam and Windows, with the ElDewrito team working alongside 343 in an advisory role to help bring the Master Chief Collection experience to the PC platform.[9]

On December 15, 2020, it was revealed MCC Series 5: Anvil would include twelve armor permutations that originally came from Halo Online, such as Demo, Suture, and Compass Mjolnir armors.[12]

Marketing[edit]

Announce trailer[edit]

Main article: Halo Online Announce Trailer

An announcement trailer was revealed in March 26, 2015 on YouTube, showing the first in-game gameplay of Halo: Online, displaying the return of some weapons of Halo 3 and the introduction of new armors.[3]

Press Conference (March 26th 2015)[edit]

On March 26, 2015 a press conference about Halo Online happened. At this press conference there were holographic pyramids with several renders of Halo Online content were in them.[13]

Story Trailer[edit]

Main article: Halo Online Story Trailer

An story trailer was released around December 29, 2015 on the official Halo Online site. The trailer went though the story elements leading up to the training the Spartans and Elites on Anvil Station on January 28, 2555. The story trailer can be found here.

Gallery[edit]

Icons[edit]

  • Original icon use for Halo Online prior to June 18, 2015.

    Original icon use for Halo Online prior to June 18, 2015.

  • Second icon used for Halo Online after June 18, 2015.

    Second icon used for Halo Online after June 18, 2015.

Concept art[edit]

  • Concept art for a Covenant-themed hangar bay serving as a backdrop for the main menu.

    Concept art for a Covenant-themed hangar bay serving as a backdrop for the main menu.

  • Concept art for a UNSC-themed hangar bay serving as a backdrop for the main menu.

    Concept art for a UNSC-themed hangar bay serving as a backdrop for the main menu.

  • Concept art for UNSC tactical packages.

    Concept art for UNSC tactical packages.

  • Concept art for mushrooms.

    Concept art for mushrooms.

  • Concept art of Halo Online.

    Concept art of Halo Online.

Promotional images[edit]

  • SPARTAN-IVs on the game's website.

    SPARTAN-IVs on the game's website.

  • Landing armor that was originally on the Halo Online site.

    Landing armor that was originally on the Halo Online site.

  • The Landing armor in Halo Online closed alpha build.

    The Landing armor in Halo Online closed alpha build.

  • The shutdown email users received when the game was cancelled

    The shutdown email users received when the game was cancelled

  • The background of the email users received during Halo Online's shutdown

    The background of the email users received during Halo Online's shutdown

  • Halo Online Headphones

    Halo Online Headphones

  • Halo Online Headphones Alt

    Halo Online Headphones Alt

Development gallery[edit]

  • A developer look into the Armory of Anvil Station. (October 9, 2015)

    A developer look into the Armory of Anvil Station. (October 9, 2015)

  • A developer concept of the Halo Online Warthog.

    A developer concept of the Halo Online Warthog.

  • Halo Online DMR Concept Art

    Halo Online DMR Concept Art

  • Halo Online AR Concept Art

    Halo Online AR Concept Art


Pre-Alpha Weapons[edit]

  • HO-M7SMG.jpg
  • HO-ACCM395.jpg
  • HO-GoldenM395.jpg
  • HO-ROFM395.jpg
  • HO-MAGM395.jpg
  • HO-SNPM395.jpg
  • HO-SNPBR85HB.jpg
  • HO-GoldenBR85HB.jpg
  • HO-M395.jpg
  • HO-DMGM395.jpg
  • HO-ROFBR85HB.jpg
  • HO-ACCBR85HB.jpg
  • HO-MAGBR85HB.jpg
  • HO-BR85HB.jpg
  • HO-DMGBR85HB.jpg
  • HO-M247H.jpg
  • Beam Rifle - Basic.jpg
  • DMR 2.0.png
  • DMR Damage.png
  • BR Damage.png
  • BR 2.0.png
  • AR Damage.png
  • AR 2.0.png
  • HO-MA5D.png
  • HO-ROFMA5D.jpeg
  • HO-ADVMA5D.jpeg
  • HO-DMGMA5D.jpeg
  • HO-GoldenMA5D.jpeg
  • HO-DMGM6H.jpg
  • HO-GoldenM6H.jpg

Beta Weapons[edit]

  • Assault Rifle variants

    Assault Rifle variants

  • M6 variants

    M6 variants

  • DMR variants.

    DMR variants.

  • BR85 variants.

    BR85 variants.

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d Halo Waypoint: Halo Online Closed Beta Launching in Russia
  2. ^ a b c IGN: Halo Online Is a Free-to-Play PC Shooter Coming Only to Russia
  3. ^ a b c YouTube: Halo Online Announce Trailer
  4. ^ YouTube: Halo Online Tutorial
  5. ^ Halo Online VK - Alpha Start
  6. ^ Halo Online VK - Alpha End
  7. ^ Halo Online VK - Future testing?
  8. ^ The end of Spartan era
  9. ^ a b Eldewrito: ElDewrito: The Future of the Mod, And our Involvement with 343 on MCC PC.
  10. ^ Eldewrito: Microsoft’s Legal Action and the Future of ElDewrito
  11. ^ Halo Waypoint: ELDEWRITO & COMMUNITY CONTENT
  12. ^ Halo Waypoint, News, MCC Development Retrospective - December 2020 (Retrieved on Jun 1, 2020) [archive]
  13. ^ 3D-model of the Halo Online

v • d • e
 
List of games in the Halo franchise
Original trilogy
Sequel FPS games
Standalone FPS games
Strategy games
Twin-stick shooter games
Virtual reality games
Arcade games
Game compilations
Mobile games
Tabletop games
Board games
Cancelled projects
Rejected pitches and internal prototypes
*Asterisks indicate upcoming releases
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