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{{Status|Canon}}
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[[File:HR ZealotSword.png|thumb|350px|A [[Sangheili Zealot]] wielding an energy sword.]]
{{Weapon
{{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]]}}}}
| image=[[Image:Energy Sword Halo3.jpg|Energy Sword|300px]]
| name=Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword
| manufacturer=[[Sangheili]]  
| model=Type-1
| type=Energy Weapon/Sword
|  cost=
| size=Handheld, Single-Handed<br />
*Energy Sword ([[Halo 1]])
**length: 126.5 centimeters (4.15 feet)
**width: 45 centimeters (1.5 feet)
**thickness: 9.3 centimeters (3.9 inches)
*Energy Sword ([[Halo 2]])
**length: 131.7 centimeters (4.321 feet)
| damage per hit=1 and 2/3 of shield, fatal if lunge, and in Halo CE, instant death
| magazine=None
| maxammo=100 Battery Units
*Enough for 10 [[Covenant]] enemies
*Enough for 40 [[Combat Forms]]
| fire= Melee
| ammotype= Plasma
| operation= close quarters combat
| rate of fire=about 1.5 seconds per lunge, and .5 seconds per melee
| accuracy=100% if jump lunge, extremely high
| range=Melee and lunge(1-2 meters)
| era=
| counterparts= Shotgun, Gravity Hammer
| counterwep= *Close Range: [[Energy Sword]], [[Gravity Hammer]], [[Shotgun]]
*Mid Range: [[Covenant Carbine]], [[Battle Rifle]]
*Long Range: [[Sniper Rifle]], [[Beam Rifle]]
| affiliation= [[Covenant]], later [[Covenant Separatists]]
}}
The '''Type-1 Energy Weapon''', also known as the '''Plasma Sword''', or more commonly as the '''Energy Sword''', is a close quarters [[Sangheili]] [[melee]] [[weapon]]. When used by the Sangheili, this energy weapon is more dangerous than its ceremonial nature implies. The energy sword is mainly employed by [[Zealot]] and [[Ultra Elite|Ultra]] Sangheili in [[Halo 2]], though Special Operations Elites have been known to use it for close quarter combat and there is always one Elite of lesser rank on [[Delta Halo (Level)|Delta Halo]]. It is one of the main weapons in use by the [[Thel 'Vadam|Arbiter]], whose race aided in the creation of the weapons.


==Design Details==
'''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}}
[[Image:Sword hilt.jpg|thumb|left|An inactive Sword's hilt.|200px]]
The '''Energy Sword''''s [[plasma]] is shaped and held into a blade-like form by a small magnetic-field generator built into the handle of the weapon. The reason the blade has two points is caused by the magnetic properties of the weapon, two poles needing two points. The hot energy of the blade can cut through most armor and can cut an opponent in half with one swipe, it is also quite effective against [[Flood]] organisms. This same technology is utilized in all [[Covenant]] plasma weapons. In [[Halo: Combat Evolved]], if the [[Elite]] wielding the sword drops it, a fail-safe activates, deactivating the magnetic field without first dispensing the plasma, consuming the handle and thus destroying the weapon. In [[Halo 2]], a similar fail-safe is active when not wielding the weapon directly. The handle must be under pressure from the handler to be activated so that the weapon can be stored safely.


Varying amounts of energy are used up when killing various foes (e.g. [[Flood]] [[Flood Combat Form|Combat Form]]: 2.5 battery units e.g [[Flood infection form]] 0 battery units e.g. Elite 10-11 battery units). Normal swipes that merely strike a foe do not drain the Sword's battery as you must kill the foe to consume power. Therefore, it may be prudent to strike a foe until it nears death and then use another weapon that has ammunition that can be found more frequently in the level. Around 10 percent of the sword's energy is consumed by killing a normal opponent in the [[Halo 2]] campaign, but only 3 percent of the sword's energy is consumed when killing Flood (Combat Form). Killing [[Infection Form]]s does not use any battery energy, but it is highly ineffective anyway, and so should be avoided whenever possible.
==Overview==
===Design details===
{{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}}


In Halo 2 [[Multiplayer]], there is no limit on the amount of energy the Energy Sword can use before running out. However, it is not in every map, and even so, the maps that do have a sword only have one. In [[Halo 3]] there is a limit on the amount of energy, only allowing the wielder to eliminate 10 players, before the '''Energy Sword''' runs out of energy and cannot be used. After the Energy Sword runs out of energy; however, you can still use it to attack your enemies. The damage is then equal to a regular melee attack and will take a longer time to kill, unless you assassinate your enemy.
[[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.}}


===Advantages===
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}}
The Energy Sword is one of the most powerful weapons in [[Halo 2]] and [[Halo 3]]. A single lunge can kill even a fully [[Shield|shielded]] [[Spartan-II|Spartan]] or [[Covenant]] [[Elite]] (depending on rank; in Halo 2, it takes many lunges to kill a fully shielded Ultra, even on Easy). An over-shielded enemy can take two lunges to kill. In [[Halo 2]] and [[Halo 3]] it is also one of the very few weapons that can destroy the bodies of dead [[Combat Forms]], preventing their revival by [[Infection Forms]]. Doing this, however, will still take up energy.


In contrast in terms of multiplayer gameplay from Halo 2 to Halo 3, the lunge is shorter. Normally (but not if your opponent makes an evasive move), the lunge will connect and will eviscerate your opponent. A normal swing of the sword can deplete 1 and 2/5's of the shielding. This is enough to eliminate a normal shield, and your health. The amount of damage can be increased if you jump, run, do a lunge, do a jumping lunge, do a melee, lunging melee, etc; but can be blocked by parrying with a melee when the opponent makes a lunge, causing the loss of your shields, but not actually killing you. The sword can also parry melees with appropriate timing. This is most common with other swords, but there is picture evidence of a sword parrying a hammer strike <ref>http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=871406</ref>.
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}}


The primary fire button initiates a lunge when the cross hair goes red or a swipe if it is not, and the [[melee]] button initiates a fast melee. <ref>Bungie Weekly Update: 7/20/07</ref> Unlike the [[Gravity Hammer]] in Halo 3, it is very hard to tell that a player has the sword when it is not the primary weapon being used, making it much easier to catch an opponent off guard, thus the player wielding it is less likely to be targeted so quickly by snipers. Remember to bear in mind the time now taken to unsheathe them, as this can give them the chance to get a shot in.
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}}


===Disadvantages===
===History===
The Energy Sword is purely a close-quarters weapon, meaning that it is completely useless past close range. A skilled [[Spartan-II|Spartan]] or [[Sangheili]] can defeat a sword wielder with low-brow weapons like the [[M7/Caseless Sub Machine Gun|SMG]] or the [[M6C Magnum]] by avoiding getting close to a player wielding a sword. It is key, much like with any other close-range only weapon, for the wielder to conceal it until he is close enough to use it properly; should an enemy spot the weapon at a distance he can easily kill off the player as he backs up to keep his distance.
[[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.]]
{{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}}


Another disadvantage is that the Energy Sword, like most other [[Covenant Weapons]], has a battery, requiring the player to drop the weapon once the battery is used up. Although the handle can be used as a club, the Energy Sword's combat effectiveness is minimal when its energy runs out (enemies, especially [[Flood Combat Forms]], are less vulnerable to a depleted energy sword and require two attacks before dying). In [[Halo 2]], Energy Swords also show through [[Active Camouflage]], making it harder to be stealthy. However, in [[Campaign]] mode, the sword seemingly cannot be seen by enemies through Active Camouflage. Perhaps if they do see it they think the player is a camouflaged Elite. In [[Halo 3]], the sword is completely invisible if you too are invisible.
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}}


Also, in both [[Halo 2]] and Halo 3, if you initiate a Sword Lunge, an opponent with a [[Shotgun]] can easily fire off one shot and kill you. This also works well with a [[Brute Shot]] although it is somewhat harder to pull off without taking damage or killing yourself in the process. You can also be [[Headshot|sniped]] at close range if the enemy is a decent enough sniper. Most of the time, the player wielding the Energy Sword will try and run at a targeted player, and most of the time they will run straight at the player, but even if they strafe from left to right they are still vulnerable while charging at their enemy.
===Operation===
{{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.'}}}}
[[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.}}


===Variations===
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.}}
[[Image:Energy-sword.jpg|right|thumb|200px|The '''Energy Sword''' as it appears in Halo 2.]]
[[Image:1212466253 Energy Sword.gif|thumb|right|An Energy Sword render.]]
In [[Halo: Combat Evolved]] the Energy Sword, it was sometimes known as a "Plasma Sword" then, has a cyan glow, has a far less defined edge and makes a dull clunk when striking something or someone. It is only used by [[Stealth Elites]] and [[Zealots]].The player cannot use the energy sword in [[Halo: Combat Evolved]], because once a [[Zealot]] is defeated, the energy sword will activate a fail-safe and disintegrate via the plasma of the former blade collapsing onto the handle, thus rendering the weapon useless.


In [[Halo 2]], the energy sword is blue with purple undertones and electrical energy crackling on it when the blade is activated. As in the previous game, it is only used by higher-ranking [[Elites]], such as [[Special Operations Elites|Spec-ops]], [[Ultra Elites|Ultras]] and [[Zealots]]. It has an infinite battery in [[Multiplayer]].
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.


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. If you look closely, Forerunner letters are on it. It also has an angle near the handle, whereas in the two previous games it was curved. The Sword has a limited battery supply in multiplayer (presumably because of its immense power), and more time is needed to unsheathe it. Interestingly, although the [[Halo 3]] Energy Sword is angular near the handle, the icon on your HUD is still curved as it was in the first 2 Halo games. The reason for this is unknown.
===Usage===
[[File:Kusovaitraining.jpg|thumb|200px|[[Rtas 'Vadum]] and [[Kusovai]] dual wielding energy swords while sparring.]]
{{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}}


In [[Halo Wars]] the energy sword wielded by [[Ripa 'Moramee]] has a ceremonial look making it look thinner near the points, since its design relates to his armor. This variation, however, adds a shielded handle that covers his hands for either better grip or protection. It is also possible that since Halo Wars takes place 20 years before [[Halo: Combat Evolved]], the Energy Sword is much older, therefore, more ceremonial for the Arbiter to use rather than a generic military variation. Ripa 'Moramee's Energy Swords also leave behind a trail of what would seem to be escaped plasma from the Sword's magnetic barrier when they slice through the air. This was not seen in Halo 2 and 3, most likely meaning that the Energy Sword's magnetic barrier was improved between the [[Battle of Harvest]] and [[2552]]. Although the glow around the Energy Sword seen in [[Halo: CE]] may perhaps also be escaped Plasma, still loosely held by the Sword's magnetic field.
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)}}


==Cultural Significance==
Within the [[Banished]], there is no enforced uniformity for the energy sword, allowing each warrior to customize their weapons to their own needs.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22p482}} That being said, the most common variants appear to be the ''Domotos''-pattern and the ''Meluth'qelos''-pattern.{{Ref/Game|Id=hw2|HW2|Gameplay}}{{Ref/Reuse|hi}}
The '''Energy Sword''' holds a high significance in Sangheili culture. Only [[Spec Ops Elite|Spec-Ops Elites]], [[Stealth Elites|Stealth Elites]], and other higher ranks including [[Aristocrat|Aristocrats]] are normally permitted to wield one. However, both Minor and Major Elites were seen using this weapon in the Halo 2 levels [[Delta Halo (Level)|Delta Halo]] and [[Regret (Level)|Regret]]. Also, in the Halo 3 level [[Floodgate (Level)|Floodgate]], the first [[Elite Major]] that you come across also has one with it, though this may be due to their recent split with the Covenant. In ''Halo 3'', all Elites, including [[Minor Elites|Minors]] can pull out Energy Swords and use them when stuck with a [[Plasma Grenade]] or a [[Spike grenade]]. This technique is used by many players to gain Energy Swords. The distribution to lower ranks could be a side effect of the [[Great Schism]] and the subsequent discarding of religious protocols. Though it is commonly used for ceremonial purposes, it is often used in a battle as well. Sangheili culture even allows an Elite with great sword skills to mate with any female he chooses, but they may not marry. This is to ensure that the 'swordsman' genes are passed to the next generation.


Only the most skilled warriors of the Sangheili are normally permitted to use the sword and it is implied that they spend years building and improving their skills in order to become combatants in the lethal art of sword fighting. Nonetheless, despite the cultural taboo against it, any Elite can wield an energy sword with competent skill, becoming a deadly foe.
== Variants ==
;Patterns
*'''{{Pattern|Domotos|energy sword}}''' - A variant with angular contours and a rectangular hole along the inner edge of either blades, with widespread use in the [[Banished]],{{Ref/Reuse|hw2}} [[Jul 'Mdama]]'s [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant|Covenant]],{{Ref/Game|Id=h4|H4|Gameplay}} and the [[Swords of Sanghelios]] in the [[Post-Covenant War conflicts|post-war period]].{{Ref/Game|Id=h5|H5G|Gameplay}}
**'''[[Ravening Sliver]]''' - Lightweight relic blades with a green hilt and deep blue tint plasma. Each model was marked by its creator and first owner.{{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}}
**'''[[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|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/Reuse|hr}}
*'''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}}
<gallery class=center>
File:H5G-EnergySword.png|{{Pattern|Domotos|energy sword}}.
File:H5G Render EnergySword-RaveningSliver.png|[[Ravening Sliver]].
File:H5G_VT_sword.png|[[Vorpal Talon]].
File:HINF EnergySword Crop.png|{{Pattern|Meluth'qelos|energy sword}}.
File:HINF DuelistEnergySword Crop.png|[[Duelist 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:H3-EnergySwordProfile.png|[[Fleet of Retribution]] variant.
</gallery>


==Tactics==
;Colors
There are two ways a player in Halo 3 can attack and lunge with the '''Energy Sword'''. The first way is lunging, which occurs when the player pulls the right trigger. With this, the player lunges forward at the other player. However, this only works when the aiming reticule is lit red, indicating that the opposing player is within range.
*'''[[Bloodblade]]''' - A red colored energy sword,{{Ref/Site|Id=artofwort|D=21|M=5|Y=2021|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/art-of-wort|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - Art of Wort}}{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/brute-force|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder: Brute Force|D=20|M=4|Y=2021}} notably used by certain Special Operations units,{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint15}} such as the [[Silent Shadow]].{{Ref/Reuse|hh}}{{Ref/Reuse|Id=artofwort}} Observed to be compatible with the ''Meluth'qelos''-pattern,{{Ref/Level|HI|House of Reckoning}} the ''Pelosus''-pattern, and the unidentified pattern variants.{{Ref/Reuse|hh}}
*'''Darkstar''' - A purple energy sword, seemingly associated with old [[Sangheili mythology]].{{Ref/Reuse|Id=artofwort}}
*'''Evocati's Edge''' - A white energy sword is associated with the [[Evocati]].{{Ref/Reuse|Id=artofwort}}
*'''Kaidon's Guard''' - An orange energy sword associated with the [[Swords of Sanghelios]].{{Ref/Reuse|Id=artofwort}}
*'''Lance of Suban''' - A pink energy sword infused with [[Blamite]]. The sword and the material originates from [[Suban]].{{Ref/Reuse|Id=artofwort}}
*'''Light of Joori''' - A yellow energy sword; Light of Joori is named after the star [[Joori]].{{Ref/Reuse|Id=artofwort}}
*'''Necroplasma''' - A green colored energy sword.{{Ref/Reuse|Id=artofwort}} 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.{{Ref/Reuse|H5G}} Another variant was a solid green with a normal hilt.{{Ref/Reuse|Id=artofwort}}
<gallery class=center>
File:H2A Render EnergySword-Infected.png|A ''Pelosus''-pattern bloodblade.
File:H5G greensword.png|A ''Domotos''-pattern Necroplasma.
</gallery>


The second attack is the straight-up [[melee]], performed by hitting the B button (default control scheme). This performs a sort of underhanded swipe (when the reticule is not red or facing an invisible opponent) or a lunge move (when the reticule is red). Though one would assume that because the energy sword's lunge and melee were the same, [[Bungie]] has indicated (via the short messages at the bottom of the screen while searching for a match in Halo 3 matchmaking), that the [[melee]] performed by hitting the B button is actually a fraction of a second quicker than those performed with the right trigger. This information can be exploited during clashes between two sword holders: if both players lunge at the same time, they will clash backwards; should one player use the right trigger and the other use the B button for their next attack, assuming that both are still within range and both attacks are thrown at the same time, the player who used the melee will almost invariably win and earn the "[[Bulltrue]]" medal (depending on host-client latency times). One way to stop a lunge attack is to throw any type of "sticky" grenade at the person lunging at you. This will kill them but you, most likely, still will die from the lunge, therefore the two cancel each other out with each person gaining a kill and death.
;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.{{Ref/Reuse|enc22p482}}
*'''[[Prophets' Bane]]''' - [[Thel 'Vadam]]'s personal energy sword with a unique handle and pale salmon coloring.{{Ref/Reuse|H5G}}
*'''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.{{Ref/Reuse|evgp10}}{{Ref/Reuse|hw}}
<gallery class=center>
File:HINF BestBuddies.png|Jega 'Rdomnai's Ghostpierce built into his prosthetic arm.
File:H5G-Thel&ProphetsBane.jpg|Thel 'Vadam wielding the Prophets' Bane.
File:HW Render Arbiter Ripa Moramee.png|Ripa 'Moramee's dual custom energy swords.
</gallery>


===Advanced Tactics===
==Non-canon and dubious canon appearances==
====Dodging Sword Lunges====
[[File:HTV-JohnvsElites.png|thumb|250px|Covenant Sangheili with energy swords in ''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''.]]
[[Image:goldlunge.jpg|thumb|right|A [[Zealot]] preparing to gut an enemy in ''[[Halo:Combat Evolved]]''.|250px]]
===Silver Timeline===
It is possible to dodge a blow from the Covenant [[Energy Sword]]. To do this, one must move quickly to the right (when facing the lunging opponent), towards the hand which does ''not'' hold the sword. Conversely, to prevent your target from dodging your lunge, simply jump; jumping reduces all chances of missing or being dodged by an opponent.
{{Main|Silver Timeline}}
{{Pattern|Meluth'qelos|energy sword}} are used by Covenant Sangheili against humanity.


====Infinite Energy====
===Fractures: Entrenched===
In [[Halo 2]], it is practicable  to have an infinite amount of energy for the sword in campaign. All you have to do is empty all of the energy of the sword before completing the first level of two back-to-back levels (e.g. [[Outskirts (Level)|Outskirts]]-[[Metropolis (Level)|Metropolis]]). When you cross over to the next level you'll still have your empty energy sword, but it acts like a normal one. However, this glitch will not work if you use the sword while it has no ammo before changing levels. And when you cloak you can see an outline of the sword. It's great for [[The Oracle (Level)|The Oracle]] and [[Quarantine Zone]]. Just remember to have an empty sword by the end of [[The Arbiter (Level)|The Arbiter]], [[Delta Halo (Level)|Delta Halo]], Sacred Icon, Uprising, [[The Great Journey (Level)|The Great Journey]] or [[Outskirts (Level)|Outskirts]].
{{Notice/Fracture|Entrenched}}
The Covenant employed arcanoblades, based on arcanotechnology.{{Ref/Site|Id=TLSM3|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/story-shard-the-last-sky-marshal#part-3|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=STORY SHARD: THE LAST SKY MARSHAL - PART 3|D=15|M=8|Y=2022}}


====Parrying====
== Gameplay ==
[[Image:73958536-Full.jpg.jpg|thumb|right|Two [[Spartan-II|Spartan]]s parrying on sandbox.|250px]]
{{Main|energy sword}}
In [[Halo 3]], a new feature has been added so that players can parry their opponent's sword by meleeing or lunging at the same time. If you pull the right trigger right before the other person makes contact, a sort of "lightsaber clang" is produced, but you do lose some or all of your shield, however when you get down to no shields, a sword clash will not affect you, though your screen will flash bright red. Be careful though; they can lunge back at you and kill you. This is sometimes known as "Fencing" and can be a game, first to die loses. A useful tactic to use in sword-on-sword fight is, once you parry,  to move back out of range. You can trick the opponent into swinging and then move back into lunge distance and teach them a fatal lesson. A simple "B" melee with the sword in Halo 3 will also parry the lunge of an advancing opponent.  If you time it well enough the sword fight can last indefinitely. An effective tactic if you are in the lead and get into a sword fight is to throw a [[plasma grenade]] instead of swinging, you will very likely stick them at such close range, if not, the explosive radius will probably kill one or both of you. To avoid getting killed by the explosion, you should back away from the battle after throwing the grenade. Another tactic is to throw a grenade at somebodies feet when they have the sword, and if you have the sword as well, when they will most likely jump up you can kill them as they land. The best way to win a sword fight is by using B, as it is much faster and the time between strikes is given a noticeable decrease.
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.
[[File:79621875-Medium.jpg|thumb|266px|Two spartans parrying in the air on Foundry]]


====Jumping====
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.
Jumping can make the Energy Sword much more fearsome, brutally effective and accurate. Jump and point your reticule down, waiting until it turns red to lunge at the opponent. This tactic makes it harder for your enemy to track you with their reticule and sword cross hair, making it more accurate. and thus you are more likely to win in a sword fight. By leaping upwards, your enemy cannot see you, and you can swiftly bring your attack down on the head giving you a "higher ground" battle mentality. Beware, [[Flood Combat Forms]] use this tactic to good effect, and do it a lot more on [[Legendary]]. This can be countered if by pointing the reticule up and lunging at the diving player ; the player on the ground who lunges up at you (in Halo 2) will most likely win the exchange.
<!--
=== Changes from ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' to ''Halo 2'' ===
[[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.


====Surprise Attacks====
In ''Halo 2'', the energy sword is blue with purple undertones, with electrical energy crackling on it when the blade is activated. The white glow seen in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' is also replaced with a more glass-like transparency. In the campaign, it is only used by higher-ranking Sangheili, such as special operations units, [[Sangheili Ultra|Ultras]] and [[Zealots]], though players can now wield the sword. The sword in campaign has a battery and can only be used effectively against a limited number of enemy forces before the battery runs out. The sword is usable in multiplayer with an infinite battery power. The energy sword has two modes of attacking; a lunge attack and a swing attack.
[[Image:32839960-Full.jpg|thumb|right|250px|An activating energy sword easily lights up the night. So even in the dark only pull it out when ready.]]
{{Clear}}
Put it away, and swap for another weapon when you are crossing open ground. If an opponent sees you approaching with an Energy Sword, they will usually backpedal and shoot you down before you can come into range. Switch to another weapon and use a surprising lunge attack, although this tactic is not recommended for use in [[Halo 3]] as it takes time to fully activate the sword, as it would with any other weapon.  


====Sword Lunging vs. Melee====
=== Changes from ''Halo 2'' to ''Halo 3'' ===
If you melee with the sword instead of pressing '' RT '' you can kill the player faster. Performing a melee attack and then lunging is very hard to block, unless done at close range where two melees would win easily. Performing a melee attack and then lunging is much faster than lunging twice; it is useful to keep that in mind when playing Rumble Pit. Caution should be taken, however, as melee range with the sword is shorter than the lunge distance.
[[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.
{{Clear}}


When in a swords game, or simply when engaging in a sword vs. sword fight, ignoring the lunge altogether, at shorter ranges, is another good tactic. Keep a steady thumb on the melee button and be prepared to hit it. A fast player will be able to parry a lunge using melee and counter-attack almost instantly. This can be used to stall or even defeat veteran swordsmen.
=== Changes from ''Halo 3'' to ''Halo: Reach'' ===
In ''Halo: Reach'', the sword is now darker in color. When activated, it is capable of lighting up the surrounding area. When unused, the sword rests differently on the SPARTAN and Sangheili character models. The energy sword appears to have been balanced out compared with its earlier incarnations, having a slightly faster swing than its ''[[Halo 3]]'' incarnation, its lunge attack now does the same damage as a normal swing, the range has been reduced, and can now be blocked by a well-timed normal melee. Players can no longer lunge immediately after a normal swing. The energy sword also has its own assassination animations when used against Elites or Spartans, replacing the Spartan [[combat knife]] and the Sangheili [[energy dagger]]; these assassinations do not deplete the sword's charge, nor do they count toward the weapon spree medals [[Sword Spree]], [[Slice 'N Dice]], or [[Cutting Crew]]. Elites also hold the sword back more than a Spartan when used as an active weapon. When a player is playing as an Elite and uses the energy sword as a primary weapon, the camera will lower a bit; this is due to the Elite hunching down. Finally, parrying does slight damage and can kill a player.
{{Clear}}


===Stopping a Sword Lunge===
=== Changes from ''Halo: Reach'' to ''Halo 4'' ===
Other than the basic shotgun, the [[Beam Rifle]] can also stop a sword lunge. The Beam Rifle is chosen for its ability to make accurate and quick shots. Just point your reticule at the head of an opponent who is lunging. Be quick enough to shoot before the lunge is completed and you have gotten an easy [[Bulltrue]] medal. If you want an even greater challenge, replace the snipers with a [[Battle Rifle]] and [[Covenant Carbine]] respectively.
[[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.
{{Clear}}


The [[Brute Shot]] is an equally competent replacement. Just shoot the sword wielder in the body before striking the enemy quickly with the sharp blade. However, do note that this method causes splash damage. Using the Mauler could also work against a sword carrier. Shoot in the body and follow it up with a quick melee.
=== Changes from ''Halo 4'' to ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' ===
Like the original ''Halo 2'', players cannot parry with the sword. An alternate version of the sword with a red-colored blade, called the ''Infected energy sword'', can be used.
* Players can melee with the sword as soon as they swap to it.
* Melee range is drastically increased.
* Unlike its ''Halo 2'' counterpart, its battery can be depleted.
{{Clear}}


==[[Dual Wielding]]==
=== Changes from ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' to ''Halo 5: Guardians'' ===
The Energy Sword is non-[[Dual Wielding|dual wieldable]] in any of the present Halo games. It is, however, physically possible to wield two swords at once in the accepted canon. The reason the Energy Sword is non dual-wieldable in game is because it kills most enemies in one hit, so dual wielding would not be necessary. Although, in the Bungie video "Et tu, Brute?" it does show an Elite slashing and impaling a [[Brute]] with two swords. To negate this, Bungie removed all possibility of dual-wielding. This hitch has been noted with dual-wielding [[shotgun]]s.
The ''Halo 5: Guardians'' sword retains the ability to parry from ''Halo 4''. Unlike in past titles, players can aim with the sword to increase its effective range, and the weapon provides a noticeable speed boost which is enough to make the player visible on the motion sensor while crouching. Three unique versions of the energy sword are available for use: ''[[Ravening Sliver]]'', ''[[Vorpal Talon]]'', and the [[Mythic weapon|mythic]] ''[[Prophets' Bane]]''.


The misconception of the sword being dual-weildable caused many gamers to be dissapointed upon playing Halo 3 however some people have attempted to show screenshots of them dual-weilding swords in order to trick people. But almost always when looked at carefully the second sword is being clearly held up in [[Forge]].
If the energy sword's battery is depleted, the player cannot lunge with the sword.
{{Clear}}


In the [[Halo Graphic Novel]], [[Rtas 'Vadum]] and [[Kusovai]] dual wield swords while in a training exercise, as well as throughout [[The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor]]. Through which dual Energy Swords are used to fight the growing Flood infestations of the ship. Due to a render seen in the early "Et Tu, Brute" ViDoc released by [[Bungie]], it was conjectured that the Energy Sword would be a [[dual-wield]]able item in Halo 3 as shown in an animation of an [[Elite]] dual wielding them, but this has since proven to be false. In concept art of [[Halo Wars]], an Elite is seen dual wielding Energy Swords. Dual-wielding is confirmed in Halo Wars as the Arbiter is able to use two energy swords, The Arbiter can be seen doing this on the front cover of [[Halo Wars: Limited Edition]].
=== Changes from ''Halo 5: Guardians'' to ''Halo Infinite'' ===
* The energy sword no longer has the ability to Smart Scope
* Lunges from the energy sword depletes ~15% of its battery as opposed to 10% in past games.
* Power ammunition crates and energy swords in the battlefield refill its battery without the need to pick up a fresh one.
* The sword is curved again, similar to the ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' incarnations. The blade is also now a much deeper blue, similar to ''Halo: Reach''’s.
{{Clear}}
-->


==Visibility==
== Trivia ==
In ''[[Halo Wars]]'', ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' and ''[[Halo 2]]'', [[Active Camouflage]] doesn't cover the Energy Sword, resulting in an invisible user holding a very visible sword. In fact, it appears that there is a floating Energy Sword, with distorted air surrounding it. In Halo: Combat Evolved, Stealth Elites with swords do not seem to realize that they are visible. In fact, even when they see you, they will behave as if they were an average [[Elite]] charging. Even with the [[Halo 2 Skulls|Blind skull]] activated, the Sword's activation lighting will still appear, giving the user away. However, this results in a glitched outline and the electrical shimmering is still visible. In ''Halo 3'', the sword receives the full effect of the Active Camouflage and does not glow when being taken out while [[Cloaking]] or [[Active Camouflage|camouflage]] are active. Compared to other weapons it still takes more time to become fully cloaked. Also in [[Halo 3]], when active camouflage is activated the sword will not make a noise, making the person stealthier. However, the sword's outline can be spotted as a distortion, similar to the user or other weapons.
* The shape of the energy sword is very similar to the real-life combat weapon, the [[Wikipedia:Katar (dagger)|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]] [[Halo 3 ViDoc: Et Tu, Brute?|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 ''[[Destinypedia:Dares of Eternity|Dares of Eternity]]'' in ''[[Wikipedia:Destiny 2|Destiny 2]]''{{'}}s Bungie 30th Anniversary Pack, two swords resembling the energy sword, the arc sword [[Destinypedia:Half-Truths|Half-Truths]] and the void sword [[Destinypedia:The Other Half|The Other Half]], were released.
*In [[Wikipedia:Konami|Konami]]'s ''[[Wikipedia:Super Bomberman R|Super Bomberman R]]'', the ''Halo 3'' energy sword is the weapon used by the [http://bomberpedia.shoutwiki.com/wiki/Arbiter_Bomber Arbiter Bomber].


==Character Compatibility==
== Gallery ==
*[[Elites]]  
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of energy swords|gameplay=yes}}
*[[SPARTAN-II|Spartans]] ([[Halo 2]] and [[Halo 3]])
=== Concept art and illustrations===
*[[Flood]] [[Combat Form]] (Human) [[Halo 2]] and [[Halo 3]]
<gallery>
*[[Flood]] [[Combat Form]] (Elite) [[Halo 2]] and [[Halo 3]]
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>


==Trivia==
=== Screenshots===
[[File:ArbiterHWSword.jpg|thumb|200px|The Halo Wars' version of the Energy Sword.]]
<gallery>
*The Energy Sword in [[Halo: Combat Evolved]] had a fail safe switch that activated when the user released it, causing the sword to dissipate in a blue explosion, leaving the player unable to use it, similar to the [[Fuel Rod Gun]].
File:Swordelite.jpg|A Zealot with a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword as it appears in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''.
*In the popular machinima series [[Red vs. Blue]], the Energy Sword turns out to be a "key" that will help the gang along in their quest to save the Alien race. [[List_of_characters_in Red_vs._Blue#Private_Leonard_L._Church|Church]] says, "Maybe it's a sword that just functions like a key in very specific situations," but [[Caboose]] conjectures, "Or it's a key all the time and when you stick it in people, it unlocks their death."
File:Gold Elite.JPG|A Zealot wielding a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword in ''Halo 2''.
*In 2008, this was to be released by Jasman Toys to go with their other laser tag weapons; the [[Plasma Pistol]] and [[Plasma Rifle]]. However, its release has been canceled or delayed, due to the very pointy tips of the blade.
File:H3 Energy Sword profile.JPG|The energy sword in ''[[Halo 3]]''.
*It was originally going to be usable in Halo: Combat Evolved, but was cut when the game became a First-Person Shooter. <ref>''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', ''[[E3|E3 2000 Announcement Trailer]]''</ref>
File:H3 Energy Sword render.png|A render of the energy sword in ''Halo 3''.
*In the download Vidoc "Et Tu, Brute?" you can see a [[Brute Chieftain]] from Halo 3 wielding an Energy Sword but was taken out of the game, possibly because it is too much of an Elite weapon, as Brutes hardly use Plasma Weapons, focusing instead on more barbaric, but effective, projectile weaponry.
File:H3-EnergySwordProfile.png|An in-game profile view of the energy sword from ''Halo 3''.
*It wasn't until the Fourth [[Age of Discovery]] that the Elites started using Energy Swords.
File:H3 DLC RatsNest 1stPerson-02.jpg|First-person view of the energy sword in ''Halo 3''.
*In the Video "Et Tu, Brute?" prior to the release of Halo 3, an animation of an [[Elite]] was shown dual-wielding swords.
File:H3 Foundry Spartan clash.jpg|Two Spartans parrying in the air on [[Foundry]] in ''Halo 3''.
*The Plasma Sword was featured in [[E3]] footage for [[Halo: Combat Evolved]]. The sword was seen wielded by [[Master Chief]], but was later dropped.
File:Swordstrike.JPG|A sword lunge in ''Halo 3''.
*Fable 2: Limited Edition comes with an Energy Sword for in game use, to coincide with the use of the MJOLNIR armor.<ref>http://www.co-optimus.com/images/upload/image/halo-fable-2.jpg|20px</ref><ref>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/fable-2s-spartan-armor-and-energy-sword-pictured/</ref>
File:Sword Study2.jpg|A study of the energy sword from ''Halo 3''.
*In the [[Halo: Graphic Novel]], [[Rtas 'Vadum]] is seen with two Energy Swords that are shorter and thinner than the regular type. Two possible reasons would be that it may be a different energy weapon, or it could just be the artistic style of the drawing.
File:HaloWars-EnergySword-PlasmaBleed.png|An energy sword as seen in the ''[[Halo Wars]]'' announcement trailer.
*In [[Halo 2]] and [[Halo 3]], you can make a [[Silhouette Sword]].
File:LegendsPackage-John117-EnergySword.jpg|[[John-117]] wielding an energy sword against [[Thel 'Lodamee]] in ''Halo Legends: [[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''.
*The sword activation sound is quite similar to the plasma grenade explosion sound in [[Halo: Combat Evolved]].
File:HR FieldMarshalSword.png|A [[Sangheili Field Marshal]] prepares to swing down his energy sword in ''Halo: Reach''.
[[File:News2_1.jpg|thumb|right|Hal's sword in the Fable 2 collector's edition]]
File:Cartographer Zealot.jpg|A Zealot with an energy sword in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''.
File:H4-Commander&Storm.png|A [[Commander (Covenant)|Commander]] with a ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword in ''[[Spartan Ops]]''.
File:Nightfall - Sangheili attack.png|A Hesduros Zealot with an energy sword during the [[Terrorist attack on Sedra City]] in ''[[Halo: Nightfall]]''.
File:H2A-Rtas&Arbiter.jpg|[[Rtas 'Vadum]] with a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:H2AZealot.jpg|A Zealot with an energy sword in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:H2AMP-EnergySword.png|A [[HOPLITE-class Mjolnir|Hoplite]]-clad Spartan using a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword on [[Stonetown]] in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:H5G-John&Sword.jpg|John-117 with a ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword during the [[Operation: BIRD IN HAND|Raid on ''Argent Moon'']] in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
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: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 ===
<gallery>
<gallery>
Image:OMG_Duel_Energy_Swords!.jpg|An [[Elite]] wielding dual Energy Swords charges at a fleeing [[Marine]] in [[Halo Wars]].
File:HaloCovenantEnergySword-PropReplica.png|Prop replica version of the energy sword from ''Halo 3''.
Image:1221845548_Elites_duel_wielding_energy_swords.jpg‎|[[Elites]] wielding dual Energy Swords during a training exercise. Note that the one on the right, [[Kusovai]], is dual-wielding, and, if you look closely at Rtas's leg, you will see the prongs of his second Energy Sword.
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.
</gallery>
</gallery>


==Sources==
== List of appearances ==
<references/>
{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-2}}
* ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' {{1st}}
* ''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
* ''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
* ''[[i love bees]]''
* ''[[Halo 2]]''
* ''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
** ''[[The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor]]''
* ''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''
* ''[[Halo 3]]''
* ''[[Halo: The Cole Protocol]]''
* ''[[Halo Wars: Genesis]]''
* ''[[Halo Wars]]''
* ''[[Halo: Helljumper]]''
* ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
* ''[[Halo Legends]]''
** ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''
** ''[[The Duel]]''
** ''[[Origins]]''
* ''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
** ''[[Headhunters (short story)|Headhunters]]''
** ''[[The Return]]''
* ''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
* ''[[Remember Reach]]''
** ''[[Deliver Hope]]''
* ''[[Halo: Reach]]''
* ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
** ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
* ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
** ''[[Terminal (Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary)|Terminals]]''
* ''[[Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn]]''
* ''[[Halo 4]]''
** ''[[Spartan Ops]]''
* ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
* ''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
* ''[[Halo: Broken Circle]]''
* ''[[Halo: Nightfall]]''
* ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
** ''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]]''
* ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
* ''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]''
* ''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach - The Animated Series]]''
* ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
* ''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]''
* ''[[Know Your Enemy]]''
{{Col-2}}
* ''[[Halo: Ground Command]]''
* ''[[Halo Mythos]]''
* ''[[Halo: Fractures]]''
** ''[[Breaking Strain]]''
** ''[[Oasis]]''
* ''[[Halo: Tales from Slipspace]]''
** ''[[Fireteam Majestic Poker Night]]''
** ''[[Hunting Party]]''
** ''[[Knight Takes Bishop]]''
* ''[[Halo: Smoke and Shadow]]''
* ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
* ''[[Halo: Envoy]]''
* ''[[Halo: Recruit]]'' {{C|Non-canonical appearance}}
* ''[[Halo: Rise of Atriox]]''
* ''[[Halo: Legacy of Onyx]]''
* ''[[Halo: Bad Blood]]''
* ''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''
* ''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]''
*''[[Halo: Lone Wolf]]''
*''[[Halo: Outpost Discovery]]''
*''[[Halo: Oblivion]]''
*''[[Halo: Meridian Divide]]''
*''[[Halo: Shadows of Reach]]''{{Ref/Novel|Id=SOR3|HSoR|Chapter=3}}
**''[[Sacrifice]]''
*''[[Halo: Divine Wind]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo Infinite]]''
*''[[Halo: The Television Series Season One]]''
**''[[Contact]]''
**''[[Homecoming (TV Series)|Homecoming]]'' {{Mo}}
**''[[Transcendence]]''
*''[[Halo: The Rubicon Protocol]]''
*''[[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]]''
{{Col-end}}


==Related Links==
== Notes ==
===Internal Links===
{{Ref/Notes}}
*[[Gravity Hammer]] - Brute equivalent of the ''Energy Sword''.


===External Links===
== Sources ==
{{Ref/Sources|2}}
{{Melee Weapons}}
{{Covenant sidearms}}


{{Covenant Weapons}}
[[Category:Covenant infantry weapons]]
<gallery>[[Category:The Covenant]]</gallery>
[[Category:Infantry plasma weapons]]
<gallery>[[Category:Held Weapons]]</gallery>
<gallery>[[Category:Covenant Weapons]]</gallery>
<gallery>[[Category:Melee Weapons]]</gallery>
[[Category:Melee Weapons]]
[[Category:Covenant Weapons]]

Latest revision as of 18:18, October 22, 2024

A Sangheili Zealot from Devoted Sentries wielding an unidentified energy sword pattern in Visegrád Relay, as seen in Halo: Reach campaign level Winter Contingency.
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 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.[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]
Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn screenshot
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]

Bero 'Kusovai training with Rtas 'Vadumee.
Rtas 'Vadum and Kusovai dual wielding energy swords while sparring.

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
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 Pelosus-pattern bloodblade.

  • A Domotos-pattern Necroplasma.

    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.

    Jega 'Rdomnai's Ghostpierce built into his prosthetic arm.

  • Thel 'Vadam wielding the Prophets' Bane.

    Thel 'Vadam wielding the Prophets' Bane.

  • Ripa 'Moramee's dual custom energy swords.

    Ripa 'Moramee's dual custom energy swords.

Non-canon and dubious canon appearances[edit]

John-117 fighting Sangheili
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]

An image used for the Fracture notice.
 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]

Main article: energy sword

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]

Main-Legendary.png See our gameplay information related to Energy sword on its gameplay page.
Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.

Concept art and illustrations[edit]

Screenshots[edit]

  • A Zealot with a Pelosus-pattern energy sword as it appears in Halo: Combat Evolved.

    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.

    A Zealot wielding a Pelosus-pattern energy sword in Halo 2.

  • The energy sword in Halo 3.

    The energy sword in Halo 3.

  • A render of 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.

    An in-game profile view of the energy sword from Halo 3.

  • First-person view of the energy sword in Halo 3.

    First-person view of the energy sword in Halo 3.

  • Two Spartans parrying in the air on Foundry in Halo 3.

    Two Spartans parrying in the air on Foundry in Halo 3.

  • A sword lunge in Halo 3.

    A sword lunge in Halo 3.

  • A study of the energy sword from Halo 3.

    A study of the energy sword from Halo 3.

  • An energy sword as seen in the Halo Wars announcement trailer.

    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.

    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 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 Zealot with an energy sword in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary.

  • A Commander with a Domotos-pattern energy sword in Spartan Ops.

    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.

    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.

    Rtas 'Vadum with a Pelosus-pattern energy sword in Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • A Zealot with an energy sword in Halo 2: Anniversary.

    A Zealot with an energy sword in Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • A Hoplite-clad Spartan using a Pelosus-pattern energy sword on Stonetown in Halo 2: Anniversary.

    A Hoplite-clad Spartan using a Pelosus-pattern energy sword on Stonetown in Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • John-117 with a Domotos-pattern energy sword during the Raid on Argent Moon in Halo 5: Guardians.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    Prop replica version of the energy sword from Halo 3.

  • McFarlane Toys figure of a SpecOps Sangheili with an energy sword from Halo: Reach.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    Mattel prop replica Domotos-pattern energy sword available in 2016.

List of appearances[edit]

Notes[edit]

  1. ^ This variant was not exclusively used by members of the Fleet of Retribution, as seen in Halo: Blood Line.

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ Halo 2, Halo 2 Limited Collector's Edition Manual
  2. ^ 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."
  3. ^ Halo: First Strike, chapter 7: "The Elite raised the energy blade and charged."
  4. ^ a b c The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor
  5. ^ 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."
  6. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved: Prima's Official Strategy Guide, page 15
  7. ^ Halo 2: The Official Strategy Guide, page 30
  8. ^ 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."
  9. ^ a b c d Halo Waypoint, Energy Sword (Retrieved on Sep 21, 2011) [local archive] [external archive]
  10. ^ a b c d e f Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 307
  11. ^ Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 482
  12. ^ a b Halo 5: Guardians, campaign level Alliance
  13. ^ a b Bungie.net, Halo: Reach Ordnance Page (Retrieved on Feb 7, 2021) [archive]
  14. ^ a b c Halo Encyclopedia (2011 edition), page 348
  15. ^ Halo 2, campaign level The Oracle
  16. ^ a b c d e Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 482
  17. ^ a b c d Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual, page 183
  18. ^ 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."
  19. ^ a b Halo Waypoint, Halo 4 Interactive Guide - Covenant Weapons (Retrieved on Mar 27, 2014) [local archive] [external archive]
  20. ^ a b Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 92
  21. ^ 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."
  22. ^ Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), page 335
  23. ^ Halo 5: Guardians, Energy Sword REQ card - description: "Deadly plasma-based melee weapon. Successful strikes deplete the sword's limited energy charge."
  24. ^ 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."
  25. ^ 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."
  26. ^ a b Halo: Combat Evolved, Gameplay
  27. ^ a b c d e Halo Waypoint, Universe - Weapons - energy sword (Retrieved on Oct 23, 2021) [archive]
  28. ^ a b Halo 3, Gameplay
  29. ^ a b Halo: Reach, Gameplay
  30. ^ Halo Waypoint, Cannon Fodder: Locke & Load (Retrieved on Apr 13, 2016) [archive]
  31. ^ Halo 5: Guardians, Mission Intel - Ceremonial Sword
  32. ^ a b Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 10
  33. ^ a b c Halo Wars, Cinematics
  34. ^ Halo Waypoint, Canon Fodder - Clarity and Grace (Retrieved on Oct 17, 2021) [archive]
  35. ^ a b c Halo 5: Guardians, Gameplay
  36. ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, chapter 34
  37. ^ Halo Legends - The Duel
  38. ^ Halo: Broken Circle, chapter 11
  39. ^ a b c d e Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 63
  40. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), page 127
  41. ^ Halo Encyclopedia (2011 edition), page 132
  42. ^ 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.'"
  43. ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, chapter 34: "'I have lost nobility. I will do what is right.' Saal's energy sword flared into being."
  44. ^ 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."
  45. ^ Halo Waypoint, Canon Fodder - High Value Histories (Retrieved on Sep 8, 2022) [archive]
  46. ^ 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.'"
  47. ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, chapter 18
  48. ^ 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."
  49. ^ Halo: Evolutions - Midnight in the Heart of Midlothian, page 91
  50. ^ 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."
  51. ^ 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."
  52. ^ Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn
  53. ^ 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."
  54. ^ 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."
  55. ^ 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."
  56. ^ 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."
  57. ^ Halo: Outcasts, chapter 1
  58. ^ 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.'"
  59. ^ Halo 3, Bestiarum - Sangheili
  60. ^ Halo Wars, campaign level Alpha Base (Halo Wars level)
  61. ^ Halo Legends - The Package (animated short)
  62. ^ Halo 4, campaign level Prologue
  63. ^ a b Halo 2, Gameplay
  64. ^ a b c Halo: Evolutions - Headhunters (short story)
  65. ^ a b Halo Wars 2, Gameplay
  66. ^ a b c Halo Infinite, Gameplay
  67. ^ Halo 4, Gameplay
  68. ^ a b c Halo 5: Guardians, Gameplay
  69. ^ Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 307
  70. ^ a b c d e f g h i Halo Waypoint, Canon Fodder - Art of Wort (Retrieved on May 21, 2021) [archive]
  71. ^ Halo Waypoint, Canon Fodder: Brute Force (Retrieved on Apr 20, 2021) [archive]
  72. ^ Halo Infinite, campaign level House of Reckoning
  73. ^ Halo Waypoint, STORY SHARD: THE LAST SKY MARSHAL - PART 3 (Retrieved on Aug 15, 2022) [archive]
  74. ^ Halo: Shadows of Reach, chapter 3

v • d • e
 
List of UNSC, Covenant and Forerunner melee weapons

v • d • e
 
Sidearms and melee weapons of the Covenant and its remnants
Sidearms
Energy-based melee weapons
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