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{{Quote|A noble and ancient weapon, wielded by the strongest of [[Sangheili]], requires great skill and bravery to use, and inspires fear in those who face its elegant plasma blade.|[[Supreme Commander]] [[Thel 'Vadam]]ee{{Ref/Game|H2|[[Halo 2 Limited Collector's Edition Manual]]}}}} | {{Quote|A noble and ancient weapon, wielded by the strongest of [[Sangheili]], requires great skill and bravery to use, and inspires fear in those who face its elegant plasma blade.|[[Supreme Commander]] [[Thel 'Vadam]]ee{{Ref/Game|H2|[[Halo 2 Limited Collector's Edition Manual]]}}}} | ||
'''Energy swords''', sometimes known as '''plasma swords''',{{Ref/Book|[[Halo: Combat Evolved: Prima's Official Strategy Guide]]|Page=15}}{{Ref/Book|[[Halo 2: The Official Strategy Guide]]|Page=30}} are a class of single-handed, double-bladed energy weapons developed by the [[Sangheili]].{{Ref/Site|Id=waypoint11|URL=http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/theuniverse/tech/gallery/energy-sword/87ebf6e2-3874-4e5c-8133-b72c20a46d7f|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page= | '''Energy swords''', sometimes known as '''energy blades''',{{Ref/Novel|TF|7|Quote=Moving from one bit of protection to the next, he fought his way across the span, dropping down to the lower level to deal with Covenant forces there, then resurfacing at the far end, where he spotted an Elite armed with an energy blade.}}{{Ref/Novel|FS|7|Quote=The Elite raised the energy blade and charged.}}{{Ref/Comic|Id=HGN|The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor}}{{Ref/Novel|Id=goo28|GoO|28|Quote=The Majors shouted to their squads, who drew their swords and saluted Voro, their raised energy blades made the air waver with their combined heat.}} or '''plasma swords''',{{Ref/Book|[[Halo: Combat Evolved: Prima's Official Strategy Guide]]|Page=15}}{{Ref/Book|[[Halo 2: The Official Strategy Guide]]|Page=30}}{{Ref/Novel|HitD|6|Quote=The plasma swords crackled against each other and the two warriors froze in position, pushing against each other, their blades trembling from the protracted contact.}} are a class of single-handed, double-bladed energy weapons developed by the [[Sangheili]].{{Ref/Site|Id=waypoint11|URL=http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/theuniverse/tech/gallery/energy-sword/87ebf6e2-3874-4e5c-8133-b72c20a46d7f|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Energy Sword|D=21|M=9|Y=2011|LocalArchive=Archive:Halo_Waypoint/2009 to 2014/Universe/Weapons#energy sword}} To their users, they are formally designated as '''fireblades''',{{Ref/Book|Id=enc22p307|Enc22|Page=307}}{{Ref/Book|Id=enc22p484|Enc22|Page=482}} and nicknamed '''plasma blades'''.{{Ref/Reuse|alliance}} The [[Office of Naval Intelligence]] has typically [[Type classification system|type-classified]] encountered energy sword variants under the designation of the '''Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword''' ('''T-1 EW/S''').{{Ref/Site|Id=bnet|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=ordnance&cid=25438|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Halo: Reach Ordnance Page|D=7|M=2|Y=2021}} Nicknames for the energy sword includes '''Katana''' and '''Kill Beam'''.{{Ref/Book|Id=enc11|Enc11|Page=348}} | ||
==Overview== | ==Overview== | ||
===Design details=== | ===Design details=== | ||
An energy sword's twin blades are superheated plasma contained in a tightly configured magnetic field generated from its grooved hilt.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint11}}{{Ref/Book|Id=enc22p482|Enc22|Page=482}} Within the hilt, there is an energy storage device that doubles as a field generator,{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}{{Ref/Book|Id=osfm|OSFM|Page=183}} which, when activated, projects the blade, with the stabilized superheated plasma being enclosed in magnetic lines extending from the hilt.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22p307}}{{Ref/Site|Id=h4guide|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/halo4guide|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Halo 4 Interactive Guide - Covenant Weapons|D=27|M=03|Y=2014|LocalArchive=Halo 4 Interactive Guide#Covenant Weapons}}{{Ref/Book|Id=h4evg|H4EVG|Page=92}} | {{Quote|Keep your blade handy. I doubt the cable can withstand its bite.|[[Rtas 'Vadum]]ee alludes to the destructive properties of an energy sword's superheated plasma while speaking to [[Thel 'Vadam]]ee.{{Ref/Level|H2|The Oracle}}}} | ||
An energy sword's twin blades are superheated plasma contained in a tightly configured magnetic field generated from its grooved hilt.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint11}}{{Ref/Book|Id=enc22p482|Enc22|Page=482}} Within the hilt, there is an energy storage device that doubles as a field generator,{{Ref/Reuse|bnet}}{{Ref/Book|Id=osfm|OSFM|Page=183}} which, when activated, projects the blade, with the stabilized superheated plasma being enclosed in magnetic lines extending from the hilt.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22p307}}{{Ref/Novel|Id=fs8|FS|8|Quote=The blade was a flattened triangle of white-hot plasma, contained in an electromagnetic envelope that emanated from its hilt. The Chief had seen such weapons slice battle-armored ODSTs in half and gouge gaping wounds in Titanium-A armor plating.}}{{Ref/Site|Id=h4guide|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/halo4guide|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Halo 4 Interactive Guide - Covenant Weapons|D=27|M=03|Y=2014|LocalArchive=Halo 4 Interactive Guide#Covenant Weapons}}{{Ref/Book|Id=h4evg|H4EVG|Page=92}} The superheated plasma ionizes the air around the blade upon its activation,{{Ref/Novel|TCP|9|Quote=The energy sword flicked into being with a crack of ionized air from the handle as the twin half ovals of blue plasma appeared.}} then continues to emit immense heat on its surroundings.{{Ref/Reuse|goo28}} | |||
The weapon is powered by a small battery that supplies power to both the plasma generator and the magnetic field generator.{{Ref/Book|Enc09|Page=335}} The battery's energy is reduced for each successful strike. | [[File:H3-EnergySwordHilt.png|thumb|left|125px|The hilt of an energy sword.]] | ||
The weapon is powered by a small battery that supplies power to both the plasma generator and the magnetic field generator.{{Ref/Book|Enc09|Page=335}} The battery's energy is reduced for each successful strike.{{Ref/Game|H5|List of REQ cards#Power Weapons|Energy Sword REQ card - description|Quote=Deadly plasma-based melee weapon. Successful strikes deplete the sword's limited energy charge.}} Once the battery power is fully depleted, the sword will deactivate unless recharged. The horizontal hilt forces the wielder to use a punching motion to impale enemies rather than the thrusting motion of most knives and swords.{{Ref/Novel|Id=tcp9|TCP|9|Quote=The first swipe of the angry-sounding sword dug deep into the assassin’s chest, spearing him on the tip of the concentrated plasma.}} | |||
Some variants, notably the {{Pattern|Pelosus|energy sword}}, contain a fail-safe mechanism that can permanently disable the weapon if the Sangheili wielder drops it.{{Ref/Novel|FS| | Some variants, notably the {{Pattern|Pelosus|energy sword}}, contain a fail-safe mechanism that can permanently disable the weapon if the Sangheili wielder drops it.{{Ref/Novel|FS|8|Quote=The alien metal rang like a gong, and the Elite dropped its energy sword. The blade guttered and went dark as its fail-safes permanently disabled the weapon.}} When dropped, the failsafe engages by deactivating the magnetic field before dispersing the plasma. The plasma then consumes the handle and thus destroys the weapon. The fail-safe is included to prevent enemy from acquiring the weapon and using it.{{Ref/Game|Id=hce|HCE|Gameplay}} | ||
Mass-produced models generally feature a simple hilt design, but more individualized models can be quite ornate. Different patterns are typically expressed through the shape of the blade; different contours can have either smooth curves or elegant angles. Furthermore, the color of the superheated plasma can vary with no functional difference as well, though most energy swords glow with a blue tint.{{Ref/Reuse|osfm}}{{Ref/Site|Id=waypoint15|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/type-1-energy-sword|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Universe - Weapons - energy sword|D=23|M=10|Y=2021}} Sangheili blademasters are often commissioned to create ornamented and hand-customized for elite individuals.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22p307}} As such, drastic variations have been observed. For example, [[Arbiter]] [[Ripa 'Moramee]]'s matching pair of custom-designed swords had basket-style hilt guards and radiated a high degree of ionized plasma,{{Ref/Book|Id=evgp10|EVG|Page=10}}{{Ref/Game|Id=hw|HW|Cinematics}} whereas most energy swords contain the blades' plasma with greater efficiency. Arbiter [[Thel 'Vadam]]'s personal sword, the [[Prophets' Bane]], was pale salmon-colored and had a wider blade compared to mass-produced swords.{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-clarity-grace|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - Clarity and Grace|D=17|M=10|Y=2021}}{{Ref/Game|Id=H5G|H5|Gameplay | Mass-produced models generally feature a simple hilt design, but more individualized models can be quite ornate. Different patterns are typically expressed through the shape of the blade; different contours can have either smooth curves or elegant angles. Furthermore, the color of the superheated plasma can vary with no functional difference as well, though most energy swords glow with a blue tint.{{Ref/Reuse|osfm}}{{Ref/Site|Id=waypoint15|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/type-1-energy-sword|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Universe - Weapons - energy sword|D=23|M=10|Y=2021}} The hilts of energy swords have demonstrated a variety of ornamental differences, such as having [[Forerunner]] [[Forerunner symbols|symbols]] imprinted on the surface.{{Ref/Game|Id=h3|H3|Gameplay}}{{Ref/Game|Id=hr|HR|Gameplay}} Ancient energy swords are marked by their creator and first owner, though their legacy is often forgotten,{{Ref/Site|Id=lockeandload|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/community/blog-posts/canon-fodder-locke-load|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Cannon Fodder: Locke & Load|D=13|M=4|Y=2016}} while the hilts of ceremonial energy swords bear ancient Sangheili proverbs.{{Ref/Game|H5|Mission Intel#Ceremonial Sword 1/6|Mission Intel - Ceremonial Sword}} | ||
Sangheili blademasters are often commissioned to create ornamented and hand-customized for elite individuals.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22p307}} As such, drastic variations have been observed. For example, [[Arbiter]] [[Ripa 'Moramee]]'s matching pair of custom-designed swords had basket-style hilt guards and radiated a high degree of ionized plasma,{{Ref/Book|Id=evgp10|EVG|Page=10}}{{Ref/Game|Id=hw|HW|Cinematics}} whereas most energy swords contain the blades' plasma with greater efficiency. Arbiter [[Thel 'Vadam]]'s personal sword, the [[Prophets' Bane]], was pale salmon-colored and had a wider blade compared to mass-produced swords.{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-clarity-grace|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - Clarity and Grace|D=17|M=10|Y=2021}}{{Ref/Game|Id=H5G|H5|Gameplay}} | |||
===History=== | ===History=== | ||
[[File:Final Duel.jpg|300px|thumb|A duel between [[Haka 'Suukaree]], who is wielding a traditional Sangheili blade weapon, and [[Fal 'Chavamee]], who is wielding a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword.]] | [[File:Final Duel.jpg|300px|thumb|A duel between [[Haka 'Suukaree]], who is wielding a traditional Sangheili blade weapon, and [[Fal 'Chavamee]], who is wielding a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword.]] | ||
The energy sword's design is seen as the logical evolution of an ancient lineage of traditional Sangheili weapons, most notably the twin-scythe and the [[curveblade]];{{Ref/Reuse|enc22p307}}{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint15}} superficially, the ancient melee weapons' influence on the energy sword's design is unmistakable.{{Ref/Film|HLeg|Story=The Duel}} The sword was originally crafted from hardened resin found in trees which lined the coastal territories of Sanghelios, but as they began carefully exploring [[Forerunner]] technology, the weapon was refined over time using [[Covenant]] technology, eventually taking its current state.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint11}} Technologically, the energy sword succeeded an older type of Sangheili sword known as the [[burnblade]], which was created by the arm masters of [[Qikost]]—one of [[Sanghelios]]' moons—in the early period of Sangheili interstellar expansion,{{Ref/Reuse|enc22p307}} and was used in the early years of the Covenant.{{Ref/Novel|BC| | {{Quote|no=four|q1=Sangheili are insane. What is the mark of disobedience?|q2=He will use his energy sword to burn marks into the skin of his arms. Crossing lines all up and down, where all can see and know him for what he is. It is shameful. Death is preferred. But for now, I need all my fighters. He can kill himself later, and we will destroy the body so that his lineage will not suffer. If he performs well in battle.|q3=Sangheili...|q4=We are strong, Kig-Yar. That is why we sit at the right hand of the Prophets.|1=Reth|2=Thel 'Vadamee|3=Reth|4=Thel 'Vadamee|5=[[Thel 'Vadam]]ee explains to [[Reth]] how a Sangheili may use an energy sword to mark one's history of dishonor.{{Ref/Novel|TCP|34}}}} | ||
The energy sword's design is seen as the logical evolution of an ancient lineage of traditional Sangheili weapons, most notably the [[twin-scythe]] and the [[curveblade]];{{Ref/Reuse|enc22p307}}{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint15}} superficially, the ancient melee weapons' influence on the energy sword's design is unmistakable.{{Ref/Film|HLeg|Story=The Duel}} The sword was originally crafted from hardened resin found in trees which lined the coastal territories of Sanghelios, but as they began carefully exploring [[Forerunner]] technology, the weapon was refined over time using [[Covenant]] technology, eventually taking its current state.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint11}} Technologically, the energy sword succeeded an older type of Sangheili sword known as the [[burnblade]], which was created by the arm masters of [[Qikost]]—one of [[Sanghelios]]' moons—in the early period of Sangheili interstellar expansion,{{Ref/Reuse|enc22p307}} and was used in the early years of the Covenant.{{Ref/Novel|BC|11}} Modern energy swords are manufactured by the [[Merchants of Qikost]], a prominent group of arms makers on Qikost.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22p482}}{{Ref/Reuse|h4evg}}{{Ref/Reuse|evg}} Prior to the [[Fall of High Charity|fall]] of ''[[High Charity]]'', they were also manufactured in the city's [[Assembly Forges]].{{Ref/Reuse|enc22p307}}{{Ref/Reuse|osfm}} Following the [[Great Schism]] and the dissolution of the Covenant, the designs templates and existing models of energy swords from the Covenant were inherited by [[Covenant remnants|its splinter factions]].{{Ref/Reuse|enc22p482}} | |||
Closely aligned with the Sangheili's rigid sense of honor,{{Ref/Reuse|evg}} the energy sword is the signature weapon of the Sangheili, and its usage has historically been regarded as both an expression of a Sangheili warrior's clerical honor and his personal combat skills.{{Ref/Reuse|h4guide}}{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint15}} The Sangheili pride themselves on their skills with the weapon,{{Ref/ | Closely aligned with the Sangheili's rigid sense of honor,{{Ref/Reuse|evg}} the energy sword is the signature weapon of the Sangheili, and its usage has historically been regarded as both an expression of a Sangheili warrior's clerical honor and his personal combat skills.{{Ref/Reuse|h4guide}}{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint15}} The Sangheili pride themselves on their skills with the weapon,{{Ref/Reuse|HGN}} which they regard as holy, and believe that it is better for a Sangheili to fall on his sword to redeem his honor than to die dishonorably.{{Ref/Book|Id=enc09|Enc09|Page=127}}{{Ref/Book|Enc11|Page=132}}{{Ref/Novel|TCP|9|Quote=Koida's eyes widened fully. 'I will fall on my sword, kaidon, but please do not revoke the blood of my line.'}}{{Ref/Novel|TCP|34|Quote='I have lost nobility. I will do what is right.' Saal's energy sword flared into being.}} When a Sangheili openly displays the absence of an energy sword on their body, it likely either indicates supplication or a condescension suggesting superior prowess.{{Ref/Novel|Out|2|Quote=He wore only a cloth jumpsuit belted at the waist, and he carried no energy sword. Whether the absence of the traditional weapon was a concession indicating supplication or a condescension suggesting superior prowess was anyone’s guess.}} ''[[Pzish'zawk]]'' is the [[Martial arts|martial art form]] which consists of the use of [[Dual wielding|dual wielded]] energy swords. Mastery of the practice earns one a high level of renown in Sangheili society, and is a skillset sometimes associated with those assigned the title of [[blademaster]].{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/canon-fodder-high-value-histories|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - High Value Histories|D=08|M=09|Y=2022}} | ||
===Operation=== | ===Operation=== | ||
[[File:FUD - ChenDeath.jpg|left|thumb| | {{Quote|no=two|q1=Decapitated? How?|q2=The wounds have been sealed by heat. So, my guess is with energy swords.|1=Olabisi Varo'dai|2=Varo ranger|3=One of [[Olabisi Varo'dai]]'s [[Sangheili Ranger|rangers]] correctly deduces that an energy sword decapitated a Sangheili all the while cauterizing the wound.{{Ref/Novel|Id=out7|Out|Chapter=7|Quote='Decapitated?' Varo'dai asked. 'How?' 'The wounds have been sealed by heat. So, my guess is with energy swords.'}}}} | ||
Since the weapon utilizes shaped plasma rather than traditional solid matter, the energy sword lacks any solid material in which to hold or impale anything; the sword does not cut or carve in the traditional sense, but rather boils anything it comes into contact with.{{Ref/Reuse|enc11}} The blade's edge is therefore extremely volatile, being able to slice through even the toughest metals like a hot knife through butter, including [[ODST armor]] and the Titanium-A class plating of [[UNSC destroyer]]s.{{Ref/Novel|TCP| | [[File:FUD - ChenDeath.jpg|left|thumb|350px|A Zealot impales [[Junjie Chen]] with an energy sword, lifting his body during the swing during the [[Battle of Circinius IV]].]] | ||
Since the weapon utilizes shaped plasma rather than traditional solid matter, the energy sword lacks any solid material in which to hold or impale anything; the sword does not cut or carve in the traditional sense, but rather boils anything it comes into contact with.{{Ref/Reuse|enc11}} The blade's edge is therefore extremely volatile, being able to slice through even the toughest metals like a hot knife through butter, including [[ODST armor]] and the Titanium-A class plating of [[UNSC destroyer]]s.{{Ref/Reuse|fs8}}{{Ref/Novel|TCP|18}}{{Ref/Novel|Id=out19|Out|19|Quote=An energy sword activated in midair above Sahir's shoulder blades and descended on his spine, driving through his armor and killing him before he could scream... probably before he even knew he had been attacked.}} Injuries caused by the weapon are often gruesome. Stab wounds by the energy sword are, in most cases, fatal, as the blade passes through the body, leaving the organs and tissues cauterized by the extreme temperatures produced by the blades;{{Ref/Anthology|HE|Midnight in the Heart of Midlothian|Page=91}}{{Ref/Novel|Id=rp17|TRP|17|Quote=The energy sword had cauterized the initial wound, but it had also created a domino effect inside his body as his organs and tissue suffered residual heat damage and vessels and arteries were effectively blocked.}} wounds inflicted by the energy sword are sealed by the immense heat.{{Ref/Reuse|out7}} Body fluids in the area of the stab wound are flash-vaporized upon contact; organs and tissue within the area of the stab wounds can suffer life-threatening damage as they suffered residual heat damage, while vessels and arteries are effectively blocked.{{Ref/Reuse|rp17}} The effects of fluids trapped in organs or arteries and the expansion of heat could lead to ruptures or small explosions, causing additional damage to the victim.{{Ref/Novel|Id=rp28|TRP|28|Quote=Instantaneously her wound was cauterized by the sword's heat, preventing body fluids and blood from moving through vessels, veins, and arteries, the force and energy causing mini-ruptures throughout her body.}} | |||
Survival is minimal at best and in the case of non-lethal strikes being administered, proper medical treatment must be applied as soon as possible to ensure permanent survival. Because of the weapon's sheer destructive damage, common forms of fatality to victims include total impalement,{{Ref/Reuse| | Survival is minimal at best and in the case of non-lethal strikes being administered, proper medical treatment must be applied as soon as possible to ensure permanent survival. Because of the weapon's sheer destructive damage, common forms of fatality to victims include total impalement,{{Ref/Reuse|tcp9}}{{Ref/Reuse|hw}}{{Ref/Film|H4FuD}} loss of limbs,{{Ref/Novel|TCP|9|Quote=Even as their energy swords passed by him, Thel was coming back up to a full stand, slicing the sword arm of the nearest assassin clear off his body.}} bodies being bisected,{{Ref/Reuse|HGN}}{{Ref/Reuse|fs8}}{{Ref/Reuse|out19}}{{Ref/Novel|TCP|18|Quote=Jora barreled through, sword high, and cut the third marine in half, but not before the man got off several shots, near point blank.}} and even decapitation.{{Ref/Reuse|out7}}{{Ref/Novel|TCP|9|Quote=The elder's head rolled across the floor, and purple blood gushed out, splattering the Saga's chiseled words.}}{{Ref/Novel|TCP|69|Quote=Zhar leapt forward, but Thel jumped as well, slamming into his side and spearing Zhar through the throat with his sword. It sizzled and spat Sangheili blood. Thel threw Zhar against a wall, then decapitated him with a swift swipe.}} | ||
The weapon's most glaring downside is that it is purely a close-quarters weapon; any combat engagement outside of the effective range puts the wielder at risk. It is for this reason that the Sangheili approach sword combat on the battlefield in two different ways, by funneling the enemy into close-quarters to allow them to strike, and/ or to apply a form of stealth using both technology and technique. Without these, the user is vulnerable to attack by all forms of ranged attack, especially from sniper-based counterattacks.{{Ref/Reuse|enc11}} Furthermore, the energy sword can sometimes expose the position of a Sangheili warrior employing [[active camouflage]] due to the weapon's energy output. | The weapon's most glaring downside is that it is purely a close-quarters weapon; any combat engagement outside of the effective range puts the wielder at risk. It is for this reason that the Sangheili approach sword combat on the battlefield in two different ways, by funneling the enemy into close-quarters to allow them to strike, and/or to apply a form of stealth using both technology and technique. Without these, the user is vulnerable to attack by all forms of ranged attack, especially from sniper-based counterattacks.{{Ref/Reuse|enc11}} Furthermore, the energy sword can sometimes expose the position of a Sangheili warrior employing [[active camouflage]] due to the weapon's energy output. | ||
===Usage=== | ===Usage=== | ||
[[File: | [[File:Kusovaitraining.jpg|thumb|200px|[[Rtas 'Vadum]] and [[Kusovai]] dual wielding energy swords while sparring.]] | ||
The Sangheili are very strict on who can be trained in the [[Martial arts|art of swordsmanship]]; in civilian life, only [[aristocrat]]s are permitted to wield energy swords.<!-- Note that The Essential Visual Guide confirms that non-aristocratic use of the energy sword is forbidden only within civilian society. This policy is not upheld within the military.-->{{Ref/Book|Id=evg|EVG|Page=63}} Sword wielders are not eligible for marriage, though they may breed with any female they choose, married or otherwise, to ensure that the genetic material which result in sword-wielding traits are properly transmitted to each subsequent generation.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint11}}{{Ref/Game|H3|[[Bestiarum]] - Sangheili}} | {{Quote|no=three|q1=Please remove the energy swords from your belts and leave them in the street for immediate disposal.|q2=We cannot do that. And we will not.|q3=The Arbiter must be able to protect himself.|1=Armiger|2=Kola 'Baoth|3=Usze 'Taham|4=[[Kola 'Baoth]] and [[Usze 'Taham]] defying a [[Created]] [[Armiger]]'s instruction to surrender their personal energy swords.{{Ref/Novel|Id=out1|Out|1}}}} | ||
The energy sword is uniquely and exclusively a Sangheili weapon; as such, deaths from energy swords are typically linked to the Sangheili.{{Ref/Level|HR|ONI: Sword Base|Quote='If he was a civilian male in his mid-sixties, he died with a Covenant energy sword through his abdomen.' 'Elites, then.'}} The Sangheili are very strict on who can be trained in the [[Martial arts|art of swordsmanship]]; in civilian life, only [[aristocrat]]s are permitted to wield energy swords.<!-- Note that The Essential Visual Guide confirms that non-aristocratic use of the energy sword is forbidden only within civilian society. This policy is not upheld within the military.-->{{Ref/Book|Id=evg|EVG|Page=63}} Sword wielders are not eligible for marriage, though they may breed with any female they choose, married or otherwise, to ensure that the genetic material which result in sword-wielding traits are properly transmitted to each subsequent generation.{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint11}}{{Ref/Game|H3|[[Bestiarum]] - Sangheili}} | |||
Within the [[Covenant military]], use of the energy sword is not restricted to aristocrats.{{Ref/Reuse|evg}} [[Sangheili Minor]]s are generally not permitted to wield the sword because of the high regard in which it is held,{{Ref/Reuse|enc09}} though exceptions have been witnessed.{{Ref/Level|HW|Alpha Base (Halo Wars level)}}{{Ref/Film|HLeg|Story=The Package (animated short)}} [[Sangheili Storm|Storm troops]],{{Ref/Level|H4|Prologue}} [[Sangheili Ultra|Ultras]], [[Sangheili Zealot|Zealots]], [[Sangheili General|Generals]], [[Special Operations Sangheili|special operation officers]], [[Stealth Sangheili|stealth troops]], and [[Sangheili Honor Guardsman|honor guardsmen]] commonly use energy swords.{{Ref/Reuse|evg}}{{Ref/Game|Id=h2|H2|Gameplay}} Some Sangheili special forces units, notably the [[Silent Shadow]], employed bloodblades, blood red-colored energy swords which burn hotter than more common models.{{Ref/Reuse|osfm}}{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint15}}{{Ref/Anthology|Id=hh|HE|Headhunters (short story)}} | Within the [[Covenant military]], use of the energy sword is not restricted to aristocrats.{{Ref/Reuse|evg}} [[Sangheili Minor]]s are generally not permitted to wield the sword because of the high regard in which it is held,{{Ref/Reuse|enc09}} though exceptions have been witnessed.{{Ref/Level|HW|Alpha Base (Halo Wars level)}}{{Ref/Film|HLeg|Story=The Package (animated short)}} [[Sangheili Storm|Storm troops]],{{Ref/Level|H4|Prologue}} [[Sangheili Ultra|Ultras]], [[Sangheili Zealot|Zealots]], [[Sangheili General|Generals]], [[Special Operations Sangheili|special operation officers]], [[Stealth Sangheili|stealth troops]], and [[Sangheili Honor Guardsman|honor guardsmen]] commonly use energy swords.{{Ref/Reuse|evg}}{{Ref/Game|Id=h2|H2|Gameplay}} Some Sangheili special forces units, notably the [[Silent Shadow]], employed bloodblades, blood red-colored energy swords which burn hotter than more common models.{{Ref/Reuse|osfm}}{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint15}}{{Ref/Anthology|Id=hh|HE|Headhunters (short story)}} | ||
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**'''[[Vorpal Talon]]''' - A lightweight variant with a maroon hilt and plasma that produces an orange-to-cyan gradient.{{Ref/Reuse|h5}} | **'''[[Vorpal Talon]]''' - A lightweight variant with a maroon hilt and plasma that produces an orange-to-cyan gradient.{{Ref/Reuse|h5}} | ||
*'''{{Pattern|Meluth'qelos|energy sword}}''' - A variant with angular contours that saw use among the [[Banished]] during the [[Battle for Zeta Halo]].{{Ref/Game|Id=hi|HI|Gameplay}} | *'''{{Pattern|Meluth'qelos|energy sword}}''' - A variant with angular contours that saw use among the [[Banished]] during the [[Battle for Zeta Halo]].{{Ref/Game|Id=hi|HI|Gameplay}} | ||
**'''[[Duelist energy sword]]''' - A | **'''[[Duelist energy sword]]''' - A cobalt colored ''Meluth'qelos''-pattern energy sword with a white hilt. It was used by [[Okro 'Vagaduun]] during the Battle for Zeta Halo.{{Ref/Reuse|hi}} | ||
*'''{{Pattern|Pelosus|energy sword}}''' - A variant with circular contours on the blade around the hilt.{{Ref/Reuse|hce}}{{Ref/Reuse|h2}} | *'''{{Pattern|Pelosus|energy sword}}''' - A variant with circular contours on the blade around the hilt.{{Ref/Reuse|hce}}{{Ref/Reuse|h2}} | ||
*'''{{Pattern|Zokotus|energy sword}}''' - A variant with asymmetrical blade design.{{Ref/Book|Enc22|Page=307}} | *'''{{Pattern|Zokotus|energy sword}}''' - A variant with asymmetrical blade design.{{Ref/Book|Enc22|Page=307}} | ||
*'''[[Unidentified energy sword pattern]]''' - A variant with a widened gap between the two blades above its hilt.{{Ref/ | *'''[[Unidentified energy sword pattern]]''' - A variant with a widened gap between the two blades above its hilt.{{Ref/Reuse|hr}} | ||
*'''Fleet of Retribution variant''' - A variant used by Sangheili from the [[Fleet of Retribution]] in [[2552]].{{Ref/ | *'''Fleet of Retribution variant''' - A variant used by Sangheili from the [[Fleet of Retribution]] in [[2552]].{{Ref/Reuse|h3}}{{Ref/Note|This variant was not exclusively used by members of the Fleet of Retribution, as seen in ''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''.}} | ||
*'''[[Mdama keep]] variant''' - A variant manufactured by 'Mdama keep in 2558. The plasma burned less intensely, thus making it harder to cut armor, but causing more grievous injuries and not cauterizing wounds. These swords took advantage of the Sangheili code of honor to make every wound a death blow, as Sangheili who wanted to retain their honor would often commit suicide.{{Ref/Level|Id=alliance|H5G|Alliance}} | *'''[[Mdama keep]] variant''' - A variant manufactured by 'Mdama keep in 2558. The plasma burned less intensely, thus making it harder to cut armor, but causing more grievous injuries and not cauterizing wounds. These swords took advantage of the Sangheili code of honor to make every wound a death blow, as Sangheili who wanted to retain their honor would often commit suicide.{{Ref/Level|Id=alliance|H5G|Alliance}} | ||
<gallery class=center> | <gallery class=center> | ||
| Line 54: | Line 60: | ||
File:H5G Render EnergySword-RaveningSliver.png|[[Ravening Sliver]]. | File:H5G Render EnergySword-RaveningSliver.png|[[Ravening Sliver]]. | ||
File:H5G_VT_sword.png|[[Vorpal Talon]]. | File:H5G_VT_sword.png|[[Vorpal Talon]]. | ||
File:HINF | File:HINF EnergySword Crop.png|{{Pattern|Meluth'qelos|energy sword}}. | ||
File:HINF | File:HINF DuelistEnergySword Crop.png|[[Duelist energy sword]]. | ||
File:H2A EnergySword-MP.png|{{Pattern|Pelosus|energy sword}}. | File:H2A EnergySword-MP.png|{{Pattern|Pelosus|energy sword}}. | ||
File:Enc22 ZokotusSword.png|{{Pattern|Zokotus|energy sword}}. | |||
File:HR-SwordRender.png|The [[unidentified energy sword pattern]]. | File:HR-SwordRender.png|The [[unidentified energy sword pattern]]. | ||
File:H3-EnergySwordProfile.png|[[Fleet of Retribution]] variant. | File:H3-EnergySwordProfile.png|[[Fleet of Retribution]] variant. | ||
| Line 95: | Line 102: | ||
== Gameplay == | == Gameplay == | ||
The energy sword was first introduced in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', albeit unusable by players. It was then made available to players in ''[[Halo 2]]'' and has become a mainstay weapon in series ever since. The energy sword is a powerful melee weapon in close-quarters combat, capable of killing most foes with a single strike. It is a [[power weapon]] that appears on some multiplayer maps. | The energy sword was first introduced in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', albeit unusable by players. It was then made available to players in ''[[Halo 2]]'' and has become a mainstay weapon in series ever since. The energy sword is a powerful melee weapon in close-quarters combat, capable of killing most foes with a single strike. It is a [[power weapon]] that appears on some multiplayer maps. | ||
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<!-- | <!-- | ||
=== Changes from ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' to ''Halo 2'' === | === Changes from ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' to ''Halo 2'' === | ||
[[File:Sword.jpg|thumb | [[File:Sword.jpg|thumb|150px|A blueprint of the energy sword in ''Halo 2''.]] | ||
In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the energy sword has a cyan glow, a far less defined edge and makes a dull clunk when striking an object. It is only used by Stealth Sangheili and Zealots. The player cannot wield the energy sword, due to a fail-safe mechanism that vaporizes the weapon when it is not released properly (e.g. being dropped upon death) by the sword-wielder. | In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the energy sword has a cyan glow, a far less defined edge and makes a dull clunk when striking an object. It is only used by Stealth Sangheili and Zealots. The player cannot wield the energy sword, due to a fail-safe mechanism that vaporizes the weapon when it is not released properly (e.g. being dropped upon death) by the sword-wielder. | ||
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=== Changes from ''Halo 2'' to ''Halo 3'' === | === Changes from ''Halo 2'' to ''Halo 3'' === | ||
[[File:ReachSchematic - Sword.png| | [[File:ReachSchematic - Sword.png|thumb|150px|A blueprint of the energy sword in ''Halo 3''.]] | ||
In ''Halo 3'', the sword has more of a light cyan tinge, similar to its appearance in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', but still has a tint of purple near the handle. It also has an angle near the handle, whereas in the two previous games it was curved. Players are now able to parry with the Sword. The power exerted by the swords hitting each other will drain both players' shields, but will not kill them unless one makes the fatal blow. The sword's lunge attack has been reduced for balancing purposes. Aside from these changes in design and functionality, the power of the sword remains unchanged. In multiplayer, the sword now has a limited battery supply. | In ''Halo 3'', the sword has more of a light cyan tinge, similar to its appearance in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', but still has a tint of purple near the handle. It also has an angle near the handle, whereas in the two previous games it was curved. Players are now able to parry with the Sword. The power exerted by the swords hitting each other will drain both players' shields, but will not kill them unless one makes the fatal blow. The sword's lunge attack has been reduced for balancing purposes. Aside from these changes in design and functionality, the power of the sword remains unchanged. In multiplayer, the sword now has a limited battery supply. | ||
{{Clear}} | {{Clear}} | ||
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=== Changes from ''Halo: Reach'' to ''Halo 4'' === | === Changes from ''Halo: Reach'' to ''Halo 4'' === | ||
[[File:EnergySword-HUD.png| | [[File:EnergySword-HUD.png|thumb|150px|HUD icon of the energy sword in ''Halo 4''.]] | ||
Contrary to ''Halo: Reach'', ''Halo 4'' does not feature the possibility to block a sword lunge with a simple melee. Killing an opponent with an energy sword no longer rewards the player with a [[Bone Cracker|Pummel]] medal, it is instead replaced by the [[Sword Kill]] medal. The battery is also drained with every hit, including against walls and floors, so it's far less viable against Hunters and other powerful enemies. | Contrary to ''Halo: Reach'', ''Halo 4'' does not feature the possibility to block a sword lunge with a simple melee. Killing an opponent with an energy sword no longer rewards the player with a [[Bone Cracker|Pummel]] medal, it is instead replaced by the [[Sword Kill]] medal. The battery is also drained with every hit, including against walls and floors, so it's far less viable against Hunters and other powerful enemies. | ||
{{Clear}} | {{Clear}} | ||
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== Gallery == | == Gallery == | ||
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of energy swords|gameplay=yes}} | {{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of energy swords|gameplay=yes}} | ||
=== Concept art and illustrations=== | |||
<gallery> | |||
File:H2 ConceptArt ArbiterAndChief.png|''Halo 2'' concept art of [[Thel 'Vadam]] wielding a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword. | |||
File:HW_Arbiter_EnergySword_Concept.jpg|A study of [[Arbiter]] [[Ripa 'Moramee]]'s custom energy swords in ''Halo Wars''. | |||
File:Fal - The Duel.png|Arbiter [[Fal 'Chavamee]] dual wielding energy swords in ''[[Halo Legends]]: [[The Duel]]''. | |||
File:Schism 2.png|A Sangheili dual wielding ''Pelosus''-pattern energy swords in ''[[The Return]]''. | |||
File:BL Reff kills Thon.png|[[Reff 'Talamee]] kills his [[Thon 'Talamee|brother]] with an energy sword during the [[Battle of Line-Installation 1-4]] in ''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''. | |||
File:H2A Terminals - Thel and Marine.png|Thel 'Vadamee with an energy sword in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''{{'}}s [[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|terminals]]. | |||
File:Hunters in the Dark full cover.jpg|[[N'tho 'Sraom]] with a ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword during [[Operation: FAR STORM]] in ''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]''. | |||
File:HSOI-CoverArt.jpg|Rtas 'Vadum with a ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword in ''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]''. | |||
File:Leon-011.png|Concept art of [[Leon-011]] with a ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword for ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''. | |||
File:HLC The Great Journey.png|Thel 'Vadam wielding a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword, alongside John-117, in [[Halo Legendary Crate]]. | |||
File:Halo3Mythos.jpg|Thel 'Vadam wielding an energy sword in ''[[Halo Mythos]]''. | |||
</gallery> | |||
=== Screenshots=== | === Screenshots=== | ||
<gallery> | <gallery> | ||
File:Swordelite.jpg|A Zealot with a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword as it appears in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''. | File:Swordelite.jpg|A Zealot with a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword as it appears in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''. | ||
File:Gold Elite.JPG|A Zealot wielding a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword in ''Halo 2''. | File:Gold Elite.JPG|A Zealot wielding a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword in ''Halo 2''. | ||
File:H3 Energy Sword profile.JPG|The energy sword in ''[[Halo 3]]'' | File:H3 Energy Sword profile.JPG|The energy sword in ''[[Halo 3]]''. | ||
File:H3 Energy Sword render.png|A | File:H3 Energy Sword render.png|A render of the energy sword in ''Halo 3''. | ||
File:H3-EnergySwordProfile.png|An in-game profile view of the energy sword from ''Halo 3''. | File:H3-EnergySwordProfile.png|An in-game profile view of the energy sword from ''Halo 3''. | ||
File:H3 DLC RatsNest 1stPerson-02.jpg|First-person view of the energy sword in ''Halo 3''. | File:H3 DLC RatsNest 1stPerson-02.jpg|First-person view of the energy sword in ''Halo 3''. | ||
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File:Halo Online - screenshot.jpg|First-person view of the ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword in ''[[Halo Online]]''. | File:Halo Online - screenshot.jpg|First-person view of the ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword in ''[[Halo Online]]''. | ||
File:HW2-Ripa&Butterflies.png|Ripa 'Mormee's in-game model dual wielding ''Domotos''-pattern energy swords in ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''. | File:HW2-Ripa&Butterflies.png|Ripa 'Mormee's in-game model dual wielding ''Domotos''-pattern energy swords in ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''. | ||
File:HINF ChakLok.png|[[Chak 'Lok]] with a ''Meluth'qelos''-pattern energy sword in ''[[Halo Infinite]]''. | File:HINF ChakLok 2.png|[[Chak 'Lok]] with a ''Meluth'qelos''-pattern energy sword in ''[[Halo Infinite]]''. | ||
File:HINF Bloodblade 1.png|A Spartan holding a bloodblade variant of the ''Meluth'qelos''-pattern energy sword in ''Halo Infinite'' multiplayer. | |||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
=== Merchandise === | === Merchandise === | ||
<gallery> | <gallery> | ||
File:HaloCovenantEnergySword-PropReplica.png|Prop replica version of the energy sword. | File:HaloCovenantEnergySword-PropReplica.png|Prop replica version of the energy sword from ''Halo 3''. | ||
File:McF - S3 Elite SpecOps.jpg|[[McFarlane Toys]] [[McFarlane Toys/Halo: Reach Series 3|figure]] of a SpecOps Sangheili with an energy sword from ''Halo: Reach''. | |||
File:SquareEnix H2A 4.jpg|[[Square Enix|Play Arts Kai]] [[Square Enix/Halo 2: Anniversary|figure]] of John-117 with a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword from ''Halo 2: Anniversary''. | |||
File:Arbiterlegendarycollection.jpg|McFarlane Toys [[McFarlane Toys/Legendary Collection Series|Legendary Collection Series]]' figure of Thel 'Vadam and the energy sword from ''Halo 3''. | |||
File:Halo-Mattel-Energy-Sword.png|Mattel prop replica ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword available in 2016. | File:Halo-Mattel-Energy-Sword.png|Mattel prop replica ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword available in 2016. | ||
</gallery> | </gallery> | ||
| Line 239: | Line 248: | ||
* ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' | * ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' | ||
** ''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]]'' | ** ''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]]'' | ||
* ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]'' | * ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]'' | ||
* ''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]'' | * ''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]'' | ||
| Line 246: | Line 254: | ||
* ''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]'' | * ''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]'' | ||
* ''[[Know Your Enemy]]'' | * ''[[Know Your Enemy]]'' | ||
{{Col-2}} | |||
* ''[[Halo: Ground Command]]'' | * ''[[Halo: Ground Command]]'' | ||
* ''[[Halo Mythos]]'' | * ''[[Halo Mythos]]'' | ||
| Line 272: | Line 281: | ||
*''[[Halo: Divine Wind]]'' {{Mo}} | *''[[Halo: Divine Wind]]'' {{Mo}} | ||
*''[[Halo Infinite]]'' | *''[[Halo Infinite]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo: The Television Series]]'' | *''[[Halo: The Television Series Season One]]'' | ||
**''[[Contact]]'' | **''[[Contact]]'' | ||
**''[[Homecoming (TV Series)|Homecoming]]'' {{Mo}} | **''[[Homecoming (TV Series)|Homecoming]]'' {{Mo}} | ||
| Line 278: | Line 287: | ||
*''[[Halo: The Rubicon Protocol]]'' | *''[[Halo: The Rubicon Protocol]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo: Outcasts]]'' | *''[[Halo: Outcasts]]'' | ||
*''[[Halo: Battle for the Blood-Moon]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo: Hippocratica]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo: The Television Series Season Two]]'' | |||
**''[[Sanctuary (TV Series)|Sanctuary]]'' | |||
**''[[Sword (TV Series)|Sword]]'' | |||
**''[[Reach (TV Series)|Reach]]'' | |||
**''[[Onyx (TV Series)|Onyx]]'' | |||
**''[[Thermopylae (TV Series)|Thermopylae]]'' | |||
**''[[Halo (TV Series)|Halo]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo: The Machine Breaks]]'' | |||
*''[[Halo: Age of Retribution]]'' | |||
{{Col-end}} | {{Col-end}} | ||
Latest revision as of 09:44, December 20, 2024
A Sangheili Zealot wielding an energy sword.
- "A noble and ancient weapon, wielded by the strongest of Sangheili, requires great skill and bravery to use, and inspires fear in those who face its elegant plasma blade."
- — Supreme Commander Thel 'Vadamee[1]
Energy swords, sometimes known as energy blades,[2][3][4][5] or plasma swords,[6][7][8] are a class of single-handed, double-bladed energy weapons developed by the Sangheili.[9] To their users, they are formally designated as fireblades,[10][11] and nicknamed plasma blades.[12] The Office of Naval Intelligence has typically type-classified encountered energy sword variants under the designation of the Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword (T-1 EW/S).[13] Nicknames for the energy sword includes Katana and Kill Beam.[14]
Overview[edit]
Design details[edit]
- "Keep your blade handy. I doubt the cable can withstand its bite."
- — Rtas 'Vadumee alludes to the destructive properties of an energy sword's superheated plasma while speaking to Thel 'Vadamee.[15]
An energy sword's twin blades are superheated plasma contained in a tightly configured magnetic field generated from its grooved hilt.[9][16] Within the hilt, there is an energy storage device that doubles as a field generator,[13][17] which, when activated, projects the blade, with the stabilized superheated plasma being enclosed in magnetic lines extending from the hilt.[10][18][19][20] The superheated plasma ionizes the air around the blade upon its activation,[21] then continues to emit immense heat on its surroundings.[5]
The weapon is powered by a small battery that supplies power to both the plasma generator and the magnetic field generator.[22] The battery's energy is reduced for each successful strike.[23] Once the battery power is fully depleted, the sword will deactivate unless recharged. The horizontal hilt forces the wielder to use a punching motion to impale enemies rather than the thrusting motion of most knives and swords.[24]
Some variants, notably the Pelosus-pattern energy sword, contain a fail-safe mechanism that can permanently disable the weapon if the Sangheili wielder drops it.[25] When dropped, the failsafe engages by deactivating the magnetic field before dispersing the plasma. The plasma then consumes the handle and thus destroys the weapon. The fail-safe is included to prevent enemy from acquiring the weapon and using it.[26]
Mass-produced models generally feature a simple hilt design, but more individualized models can be quite ornate. Different patterns are typically expressed through the shape of the blade; different contours can have either smooth curves or elegant angles. Furthermore, the color of the superheated plasma can vary with no functional difference as well, though most energy swords glow with a blue tint.[17][27] The hilts of energy swords have demonstrated a variety of ornamental differences, such as having Forerunner symbols imprinted on the surface.[28][29] Ancient energy swords are marked by their creator and first owner, though their legacy is often forgotten,[30] while the hilts of ceremonial energy swords bear ancient Sangheili proverbs.[31]
Sangheili blademasters are often commissioned to create ornamented and hand-customized for elite individuals.[10] As such, drastic variations have been observed. For example, Arbiter Ripa 'Moramee's matching pair of custom-designed swords had basket-style hilt guards and radiated a high degree of ionized plasma,[32][33] whereas most energy swords contain the blades' plasma with greater efficiency. Arbiter Thel 'Vadam's personal sword, the Prophets' Bane, was pale salmon-colored and had a wider blade compared to mass-produced swords.[34][35]
History[edit]
A duel between Haka 'Suukaree, who is wielding a traditional Sangheili blade weapon, and Fal 'Chavamee, who is wielding a Pelosus-pattern energy sword.
- Reth: "Sangheili are insane. What is the mark of disobedience?"
- Thel 'Vadamee: "He will use his energy sword to burn marks into the skin of his arms. Crossing lines all up and down, where all can see and know him for what he is. It is shameful. Death is preferred. But for now, I need all my fighters. He can kill himself later, and we will destroy the body so that his lineage will not suffer. If he performs well in battle."
- Reth: "Sangheili..."
- Thel 'Vadamee: "We are strong, Kig-Yar. That is why we sit at the right hand of the Prophets."
- — Thel 'Vadamee explains to Reth how a Sangheili may use an energy sword to mark one's history of dishonor.[36]
The energy sword's design is seen as the logical evolution of an ancient lineage of traditional Sangheili weapons, most notably the twin-scythe and the curveblade;[10][27] superficially, the ancient melee weapons' influence on the energy sword's design is unmistakable.[37] The sword was originally crafted from hardened resin found in trees which lined the coastal territories of Sanghelios, but as they began carefully exploring Forerunner technology, the weapon was refined over time using Covenant technology, eventually taking its current state.[9] Technologically, the energy sword succeeded an older type of Sangheili sword known as the burnblade, which was created by the arm masters of Qikost—one of Sanghelios' moons—in the early period of Sangheili interstellar expansion,[10] and was used in the early years of the Covenant.[38] Modern energy swords are manufactured by the Merchants of Qikost, a prominent group of arms makers on Qikost.[16][20][39] Prior to the fall of High Charity, they were also manufactured in the city's Assembly Forges.[10][17] Following the Great Schism and the dissolution of the Covenant, the designs templates and existing models of energy swords from the Covenant were inherited by its splinter factions.[16]
Closely aligned with the Sangheili's rigid sense of honor,[39] the energy sword is the signature weapon of the Sangheili, and its usage has historically been regarded as both an expression of a Sangheili warrior's clerical honor and his personal combat skills.[19][27] The Sangheili pride themselves on their skills with the weapon,[4] which they regard as holy, and believe that it is better for a Sangheili to fall on his sword to redeem his honor than to die dishonorably.[40][41][42][43] When a Sangheili openly displays the absence of an energy sword on their body, it likely either indicates supplication or a condescension suggesting superior prowess.[44] Pzish'zawk is the martial art form which consists of the use of dual wielded energy swords. Mastery of the practice earns one a high level of renown in Sangheili society, and is a skillset sometimes associated with those assigned the title of blademaster.[45]
Operation[edit]
- Olabisi Varo'dai: "Decapitated? How?"
- Varo ranger: "The wounds have been sealed by heat. So, my guess is with energy swords."
- — One of Olabisi Varo'dai's rangers correctly deduces that an energy sword decapitated a Sangheili all the while cauterizing the wound.[46]
A Zealot impales Junjie Chen with an energy sword, lifting his body during the swing during the Battle of Circinius IV.
Since the weapon utilizes shaped plasma rather than traditional solid matter, the energy sword lacks any solid material in which to hold or impale anything; the sword does not cut or carve in the traditional sense, but rather boils anything it comes into contact with.[14] The blade's edge is therefore extremely volatile, being able to slice through even the toughest metals like a hot knife through butter, including ODST armor and the Titanium-A class plating of UNSC destroyers.[18][47][48] Injuries caused by the weapon are often gruesome. Stab wounds by the energy sword are, in most cases, fatal, as the blade passes through the body, leaving the organs and tissues cauterized by the extreme temperatures produced by the blades;[49][50] wounds inflicted by the energy sword are sealed by the immense heat.[46] Body fluids in the area of the stab wound are flash-vaporized upon contact; organs and tissue within the area of the stab wounds can suffer life-threatening damage as they suffered residual heat damage, while vessels and arteries are effectively blocked.[50] The effects of fluids trapped in organs or arteries and the expansion of heat could lead to ruptures or small explosions, causing additional damage to the victim.[51]
Survival is minimal at best and in the case of non-lethal strikes being administered, proper medical treatment must be applied as soon as possible to ensure permanent survival. Because of the weapon's sheer destructive damage, common forms of fatality to victims include total impalement,[24][33][52] loss of limbs,[53] bodies being bisected,[4][18][48][54] and even decapitation.[46][55][56]
The weapon's most glaring downside is that it is purely a close-quarters weapon; any combat engagement outside of the effective range puts the wielder at risk. It is for this reason that the Sangheili approach sword combat on the battlefield in two different ways, by funneling the enemy into close-quarters to allow them to strike, and/or to apply a form of stealth using both technology and technique. Without these, the user is vulnerable to attack by all forms of ranged attack, especially from sniper-based counterattacks.[14] Furthermore, the energy sword can sometimes expose the position of a Sangheili warrior employing active camouflage due to the weapon's energy output.
Usage[edit]
- Armiger: "Please remove the energy swords from your belts and leave them in the street for immediate disposal."
- Kola 'Baoth: "We cannot do that. And we will not."
- Usze 'Taham: "The Arbiter must be able to protect himself."
- — Kola 'Baoth and Usze 'Taham defying a Created Armiger's instruction to surrender their personal energy swords.[57]
The energy sword is uniquely and exclusively a Sangheili weapon; as such, deaths from energy swords are typically linked to the Sangheili.[58] The Sangheili are very strict on who can be trained in the art of swordsmanship; in civilian life, only aristocrats are permitted to wield energy swords.[39] Sword wielders are not eligible for marriage, though they may breed with any female they choose, married or otherwise, to ensure that the genetic material which result in sword-wielding traits are properly transmitted to each subsequent generation.[9][59]
Within the Covenant military, use of the energy sword is not restricted to aristocrats.[39] Sangheili Minors are generally not permitted to wield the sword because of the high regard in which it is held,[40] though exceptions have been witnessed.[60][61] Storm troops,[62] Ultras, Zealots, Generals, special operation officers, stealth troops, and honor guardsmen commonly use energy swords.[39][63] Some Sangheili special forces units, notably the Silent Shadow, employed bloodblades, blood red-colored energy swords which burn hotter than more common models.[17][27][64]
Within the Banished, there is no enforced uniformity for the energy sword, allowing each warrior to customize their weapons to their own needs.[16] That being said, the most common variants appear to be the Domotos-pattern and the Meluth'qelos-pattern.[65][66]
Variants[edit]
- Patterns
- Domotos-pattern energy sword - A variant with angular contours and a rectangular hole along the inner edge of either blades, with widespread use in the Banished,[65] Jul 'Mdama's Covenant,[67] and the Swords of Sanghelios in the post-war period.[68]
- Ravening Sliver - Lightweight relic blades with a green hilt and deep blue tint plasma. Each model was marked by its creator and first owner.[68]
- Vorpal Talon - A lightweight variant with a maroon hilt and plasma that produces an orange-to-cyan gradient.[68]
- Meluth'qelos-pattern energy sword - A variant with angular contours that saw use among the Banished during the Battle for Zeta Halo.[66]
- Duelist energy sword - A cobalt colored Meluth'qelos-pattern energy sword with a white hilt. It was used by Okro 'Vagaduun during the Battle for Zeta Halo.[66]
- Pelosus-pattern energy sword - A variant with circular contours on the blade around the hilt.[26][63]
- Zokotus-pattern energy sword - A variant with asymmetrical blade design.[69]
- Unidentified energy sword pattern - A variant with a widened gap between the two blades above its hilt.[29]
- Fleet of Retribution variant - A variant used by Sangheili from the Fleet of Retribution in 2552.[28][Note 1]
- Mdama keep variant - A variant manufactured by 'Mdama keep in 2558. The plasma burned less intensely, thus making it harder to cut armor, but causing more grievous injuries and not cauterizing wounds. These swords took advantage of the Sangheili code of honor to make every wound a death blow, as Sangheili who wanted to retain their honor would often commit suicide.[12]
Fleet of Retribution variant.
- Colors
- Bloodblade - A red colored energy sword,[70][71] notably used by certain Special Operations units,[27] such as the Silent Shadow.[64][70] Observed to be compatible with the Meluth'qelos-pattern,[72] the Pelosus-pattern, and the unidentified pattern variants.[64]
- Darkstar - A purple energy sword, seemingly associated with old Sangheili mythology.[70]
- Evocati's Edge - A white energy sword is associated with the Evocati.[70]
- Kaidon's Guard - An orange energy sword associated with the Swords of Sanghelios.[70]
- Lance of Suban - A pink energy sword infused with Blamite. The sword and the material originates from Suban.[70]
- Light of Joori - A yellow energy sword; Light of Joori is named after the star Joori.[70]
- Necroplasma - A green colored energy sword.[70] The Domotos-pattern variant features a dull green blade that transitions to an inky black near the basket hilt and was used in Spartan-IV War Games.[35] Another variant was a solid green with a normal hilt.[70]
A Pelosus-pattern bloodblade.
A Domotos-pattern Necroplasma.
- Notable personalized variants
- Ghostpierce - A highly specialized energy sword mounted on Banished operative Jega 'Rdomnai's prosthetic arm repaired at Cherras Keep. Like many, it was two-pronged but had a red coloration and a forked structure.[16]
- Prophets' Bane - Thel 'Vadam's personal energy sword with a unique handle and pale salmon coloring.[35]
- Ripa 'Moramee's swords - Ripa 'Moramee's matching pair of custom-designed swords with basket-style hilt guards and radiated a high degree of ionized plasma.[32][33]
Jega 'Rdomnai's Ghostpierce built into his prosthetic arm.
Thel 'Vadam wielding the Prophets' Bane.
Ripa 'Moramee's dual custom energy swords.
Non-canon and dubious canon appearances[edit]
Covenant Sangheili with energy swords in Halo: The Television Series.
Silver Timeline[edit]
- Main article: Silver Timeline
Meluth'qelos-pattern energy sword are used by Covenant Sangheili against humanity.
Fractures: Entrenched[edit]
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This article contains information from the Entrenched Fractures universe, and is not a part of the established Halo canon. To learn more information about the Entrenched universe, see its article. |
The Covenant employed arcanoblades, based on arcanotechnology.[73]
Gameplay[edit]
The energy sword was first introduced in Halo: Combat Evolved, albeit unusable by players. It was then made available to players in Halo 2 and has become a mainstay weapon in series ever since. The energy sword is a powerful melee weapon in close-quarters combat, capable of killing most foes with a single strike. It is a power weapon that appears on some multiplayer maps.
There are two ways to attack with the energy sword. The first is a simple melee, this performs a quick horizontal or overhanded swipe. The second attack is to lunge with the energy sword, allowing players lunges forward at the enemies. However, this require the player to initiate an attack when the aiming reticule turns red, indicating that the opposing player is within range. A depleted energy sword hilt can still be used offensively. While the damage varies, it has a higher melee rate than any weapon, allowing the player to barrage an enemy with many hits. Once the hilt is swapped for another weapon, however, it cannot be picked up again and often vanishes entirely.
Trivia[edit]
- The shape of the energy sword is very similar to the real-life combat weapon, the katar. It was a South Asian weapon and status symbol, similar to the energy sword's symbolization of status among the Sangheili.
- In the Halo 3 ViDoc Et Tu, Brute? there is an unfinished animation depicting a Jiralhanae Chieftain wielding an energy sword. The energy sword, however, was never seen in the hands of Jiralhanae in the final game.
- As a part of Dares of Eternity in Destiny 2's Bungie 30th Anniversary Pack, two swords resembling the energy sword, the arc sword Half-Truths and the void sword The Other Half, were released.
- In Konami's Super Bomberman R, the Halo 3 energy sword is the weapon used by the Arbiter Bomber.
Gallery[edit]
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See our gameplay information related to Energy sword on its gameplay page. |
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Browse more images in this article's gallery page. |
Concept art and illustrations[edit]
Halo 2 concept art of Thel 'Vadam wielding a Pelosus-pattern energy sword.
A study of Arbiter Ripa 'Moramee's custom energy swords in Halo Wars.
Arbiter Fal 'Chavamee dual wielding energy swords in Halo Legends: The Duel.
A Sangheili dual wielding Pelosus-pattern energy swords in The Return.
Reff 'Talamee kills his brother with an energy sword during the Battle of Line-Installation 1-4 in Halo: Blood Line.
Thel 'Vadamee with an energy sword in Halo 2: Anniversary's terminals.
N'tho 'Sraom with a Domotos-pattern energy sword during Operation: FAR STORM in Halo: Hunters in the Dark.
Rtas 'Vadum with a Domotos-pattern energy sword in Halo: Shadow of Intent.
Concept art of Leon-011 with a Domotos-pattern energy sword for Halo Wars 2.
Thel 'Vadam wielding a Pelosus-pattern energy sword, alongside John-117, in Halo Legendary Crate.
Thel 'Vadam wielding an energy sword in Halo Mythos.
Screenshots[edit]
A Zealot with a Pelosus-pattern energy sword as it appears in Halo: Combat Evolved.
A Zealot wielding a Pelosus-pattern energy sword in Halo 2.
The energy sword in Halo 3.
A render of the energy sword in Halo 3.
An in-game profile view of the energy sword from Halo 3.
First-person view of the energy sword in Halo 3.
Two Spartans parrying in the air on Foundry in Halo 3.
A sword lunge in Halo 3.
A study of the energy sword from Halo 3.
An energy sword as seen in the Halo Wars announcement trailer.
John-117 wielding an energy sword against Thel 'Lodamee in Halo Legends: The Package.
A Sangheili Field Marshal prepares to swing down his energy sword in Halo: Reach.
A Zealot with an energy sword in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary.
A Commander with a Domotos-pattern energy sword in Spartan Ops.
A Hesduros Zealot with an energy sword during the Terrorist attack on Sedra City in Halo: Nightfall.
Rtas 'Vadum with a Pelosus-pattern energy sword in Halo 2: Anniversary.
A Zealot with an energy sword in Halo 2: Anniversary.
John-117 with a Domotos-pattern energy sword during the Raid on Argent Moon in Halo 5: Guardians.
First-person view of the Domotos-pattern energy sword in Halo Online.
Ripa 'Mormee's in-game model dual wielding Domotos-pattern energy swords in Halo Wars 2.
Chak 'Lok with a Meluth'qelos-pattern energy sword in Halo Infinite.
A Spartan holding a bloodblade variant of the Meluth'qelos-pattern energy sword in Halo Infinite multiplayer.
Merchandise[edit]
Prop replica version of the energy sword from Halo 3.
McFarlane Toys figure of a SpecOps Sangheili with an energy sword from Halo: Reach.
Play Arts Kai figure of John-117 with a Pelosus-pattern energy sword from Halo 2: Anniversary.
McFarlane Toys Legendary Collection Series' figure of Thel 'Vadam and the energy sword from Halo 3.
Mattel prop replica Domotos-pattern energy sword available in 2016.
List of appearances[edit]
Notes[edit]
- ^ This variant was not exclusively used by members of the Fleet of Retribution, as seen in Halo: Blood Line.
Sources[edit]
- ^ Halo 2, Halo 2 Limited Collector's Edition Manual
- ^ Halo: The Flood, chapter 7: "Moving from one bit of protection to the next, he fought his way across the span, dropping down to the lower level to deal with Covenant forces there, then resurfacing at the far end, where he spotted an Elite armed with an energy blade."
- ^ Halo: First Strike, chapter 7: "The Elite raised the energy blade and charged."
- ^ a b c The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor
- ^ a b Halo: Ghosts of Onyx, chapter 28: "The Majors shouted to their squads, who drew their swords and saluted Voro, their raised energy blades made the air waver with their combined heat."
- ^ Halo: Combat Evolved: Prima's Official Strategy Guide, page 15
- ^ Halo 2: The Official Strategy Guide, page 30
- ^ Halo: Hunters in the Dark, chapter 6: "The plasma swords crackled against each other and the two warriors froze in position, pushing against each other, their blades trembling from the protracted contact."
- ^ a b c d Halo Waypoint, Energy Sword (Retrieved on Sep 21, 2011) [local archive] [external archive]
- ^ a b c d e f Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 307
- ^ Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 482
- ^ a b Halo 5: Guardians, campaign level Alliance
- ^ a b Bungie.net, Halo: Reach Ordnance Page (Retrieved on Feb 7, 2021) [archive]
- ^ a b c Halo Encyclopedia (2011 edition), page 348
- ^ Halo 2, campaign level The Oracle
- ^ a b c d e Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 482
- ^ a b c d Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual, page 183
- ^ a b c Halo: First Strike, chapter 8: "The blade was a flattened triangle of white-hot plasma, contained in an electromagnetic envelope that emanated from its hilt. The Chief had seen such weapons slice battle-armored ODSTs in half and gouge gaping wounds in Titanium-A armor plating."
- ^ a b Halo Waypoint, Halo 4 Interactive Guide - Covenant Weapons (Retrieved on Mar 27, 2014) [local archive] [external archive]
- ^ a b Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 92
- ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, chapter 9: "The energy sword flicked into being with a crack of ionized air from the handle as the twin half ovals of blue plasma appeared."
- ^ Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), page 335
- ^ Halo 5: Guardians, Energy Sword REQ card - description: "Deadly plasma-based melee weapon. Successful strikes deplete the sword's limited energy charge."
- ^ a b Halo: The Cole Protocol, chapter 9: "The first swipe of the angry-sounding sword dug deep into the assassin’s chest, spearing him on the tip of the concentrated plasma."
- ^ Halo: First Strike, chapter 8: "The alien metal rang like a gong, and the Elite dropped its energy sword. The blade guttered and went dark as its fail-safes permanently disabled the weapon."
- ^ a b Halo: Combat Evolved, Gameplay
- ^ a b c d e Halo Waypoint, Universe - Weapons - energy sword (Retrieved on Oct 23, 2021) [archive]
- ^ a b Halo 3, Gameplay
- ^ a b Halo: Reach, Gameplay
- ^ Halo Waypoint, Cannon Fodder: Locke & Load (Retrieved on Apr 13, 2016) [archive]
- ^ Halo 5: Guardians, Mission Intel - Ceremonial Sword
- ^ a b Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 10
- ^ a b c Halo Wars, Cinematics
- ^ Halo Waypoint, Canon Fodder - Clarity and Grace (Retrieved on Oct 17, 2021) [archive]
- ^ a b c Halo 5: Guardians, Gameplay
- ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, chapter 34
- ^ Halo Legends - The Duel
- ^ Halo: Broken Circle, chapter 11
- ^ a b c d e Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 63
- ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), page 127
- ^ Halo Encyclopedia (2011 edition), page 132
- ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, chapter 9: "Koida's eyes widened fully. 'I will fall on my sword, kaidon, but please do not revoke the blood of my line.'"
- ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, chapter 34: "'I have lost nobility. I will do what is right.' Saal's energy sword flared into being."
- ^ Halo: Outcasts, chapter 2: "He wore only a cloth jumpsuit belted at the waist, and he carried no energy sword. Whether the absence of the traditional weapon was a concession indicating supplication or a condescension suggesting superior prowess was anyone’s guess."
- ^ Halo Waypoint, Canon Fodder - High Value Histories (Retrieved on Sep 8, 2022) [archive]
- ^ a b c Halo: Outcasts, chapter 7: "'Decapitated?' Varo'dai asked. 'How?' 'The wounds have been sealed by heat. So, my guess is with energy swords.'"
- ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, chapter 18
- ^ a b Halo: Outcasts, chapter 19: "An energy sword activated in midair above Sahir's shoulder blades and descended on his spine, driving through his armor and killing him before he could scream... probably before he even knew he had been attacked."
- ^ Halo: Evolutions - Midnight in the Heart of Midlothian, page 91
- ^ a b Halo: The Rubicon Protocol, chapter 17: "The energy sword had cauterized the initial wound, but it had also created a domino effect inside his body as his organs and tissue suffered residual heat damage and vessels and arteries were effectively blocked."
- ^ Halo: The Rubicon Protocol, chapter 28: "Instantaneously her wound was cauterized by the sword's heat, preventing body fluids and blood from moving through vessels, veins, and arteries, the force and energy causing mini-ruptures throughout her body."
- ^ Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn
- ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, chapter 9: "Even as their energy swords passed by him, Thel was coming back up to a full stand, slicing the sword arm of the nearest assassin clear off his body."
- ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, chapter 18: "Jora barreled through, sword high, and cut the third marine in half, but not before the man got off several shots, near point blank."
- ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, chapter 9: "The elder's head rolled across the floor, and purple blood gushed out, splattering the Saga's chiseled words."
- ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, chapter 69: "Zhar leapt forward, but Thel jumped as well, slamming into his side and spearing Zhar through the throat with his sword. It sizzled and spat Sangheili blood. Thel threw Zhar against a wall, then decapitated him with a swift swipe."
- ^ Halo: Outcasts, chapter 1
- ^ Halo: Reach, campaign level ONI: Sword Base: "'If he was a civilian male in his mid-sixties, he died with a Covenant energy sword through his abdomen.' 'Elites, then.'"
- ^ Halo 3, Bestiarum - Sangheili
- ^ Halo Wars, campaign level Alpha Base (Halo Wars level)
- ^ Halo Legends - The Package (animated short)
- ^ Halo 4, campaign level Prologue
- ^ a b Halo 2, Gameplay
- ^ a b c Halo: Evolutions - Headhunters (short story)
- ^ a b Halo Wars 2, Gameplay
- ^ a b c Halo Infinite, Gameplay
- ^ Halo 4, Gameplay
- ^ a b c Halo 5: Guardians, Gameplay
- ^ Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 307
- ^ a b c d e f g h i Halo Waypoint, Canon Fodder - Art of Wort (Retrieved on May 21, 2021) [archive]
- ^ Halo Waypoint, Canon Fodder: Brute Force (Retrieved on Apr 20, 2021) [archive]
- ^ Halo Infinite, campaign level House of Reckoning
- ^ Halo Waypoint, STORY SHARD: THE LAST SKY MARSHAL - PART 3 (Retrieved on Aug 15, 2022) [archive]
- ^ Halo: Shadows of Reach, chapter 3
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