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{{Era|Covenant|Human|UNSC|HCW|Post}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Ratings}}
[[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]]}}}}
|name= Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword
|image= [[File:Type-1 Sangheili Energy Sword.png|300px]]
|manufacturer= [[Sangheili]]
|model= Type-1
|type= Energy Weapon/Sword
|size= Handheld, Single-handed<br />
*Energy Sword (''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'')
**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)
*Weight: 2.36 kg (5.2 lbs)<ref>'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 334''</ref>
|damage per hit = 1 and 2/3 of shield, fatal if lunge, (Instant death in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'')
|magazine=
|maxammo= 100 battery units
|fire= Melee
|ammotype= Plasma
|operation= Close quarters combat
|rate of fire=Semi-Automatic
|accuracy=
|range=
|era=
|counterparts=
|counterwep=
|affiliation= [[Covenant Empire]],[[Covenant Army]], [[Sangheili]]
}}
{{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.|then-[[Supreme Commander]] [[Thel 'Vadam]]ee <ref>'''[[Halo 2: Special Collector's Edition Manual]]</ref>'''}}
The '''Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword''', commonly known as the '''Energy Sword''', is a close quarters weapon of the [[Covenant Empire]] exclusively used by the [[Sangheili]].<ref name="BungieReach">[http://www.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=ordnance&cid=25438 '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo Reach Ordnance Guide: T1 EW/S'']</ref>


==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}}
[[File:Sword.jpg|thumb|left|150px|A blueprint of the energy sword in ''Halo 3''.]]
[[File:ReachSchematic - Sword.png|left|150px|thumb|A blueprint of the energy sword in ''Halo: Reach''.]]
The Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword consists of a curved hilt, which houses an energy storage and generation device, as well as the blade projector; that forms a blade of superheated [[plasma]], stabilized by two small magnetic field generators built into the handle of the weapon — this forms and contains the oval shaped, ionized blades for which the weapon is recognized.<ref name="BungieReach"/> The weapon is powered by a small battery that supplies power to the plasma generation device and magnetic field generators which generate and contain the plasma needed to form the blade.<ref name="enyc">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''' ''page 335''</ref> The battery's energy is reduced for each successful strike. Each strike from the sword will drain the battery by 10% of its maximum energy output. Once the battery power is fully depleted, the sword will deactivate unless recharged.


The Type-1 Energy Weapon contains a failsafe mechanism that can permanently disable the weapon if the Sangheili wielding it drops it.<ref>'''[[Halo: First Strike]]''' ''page 74''</ref> 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.<ref>'''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'''</ref> The failsafe is included to prevent enemy infantry from acquiring the weapon and using it, and is yet another insight to Sangheili tactics.
==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}}


The energy sword is the signature weapon of the Sangheili, and has been their weapon of nobility since its creation during one of their [[Age of Discovery|Ages of Discovery]].<ref>'''[http://nikon.bungie.org/misc/ancient_tablets/Tablet4.gif The Covenant Hall of Murals]'''</ref> Viewed as a holy weapon<ref name="enyc127">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''' ''page 127''</ref> the Sangheili pride themselves on their skills with this weapon<ref>'''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''' ''page 12 - 14''</ref> and believe that it is better for a Sangheili to fall on his sword as an act to redeem his honor or to die by it.<ref>'''[[Halo: The Cole Protocol]]''' ''page 53''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: The Cole Protocol]]''' ''page 141''</ref><ref name="enyc127"/> The Sangheili are also very strict on who can be trained in the art of swordsmanship - only [[aristocrat]]s are permitted to wield energy swords and sword wielders are no longer eligible for marriage. However, they may breed with any female they choose, married or otherwise, to ensure successful transmission of "swordsman" genes.<ref>'''[[Bestiarum]]''' ''Sangheili section''</ref> In service to the Covenant, Sangheili of a high or important rank are permitted to wield this weapon - [[Sangheili Minor|lower ranks]] are not permitted to wield the sword because of its high status.<ref name="enyc127"/> In the Covenant, [[Sangheili Zealot]]s, [[Special Operations Sangheili|special operations units]], and [[Stealth Sangheili|stealth troops]], as well as [[Sangheili Honor Guardsman]], are permitted to use energy swords.
[[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 Type-1 Energy Weapon is an extremely powerful and effective melee weapon in close-quarters combat. A single strike can penetrate through the energy shield systems and into the armor and flesh of a [[SPARTAN Program|SPARTAN]] or a Sangheili. This is due to the design of the weapon, which utilizes ionized gas rather than traditional shaped, solid matter - because 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 name="enyc"/> This allows the weapon to pass though any type of material, including the toughest metal, with ease.<ref name="cole">'''[[Halo: The Cole Protocol]]''' ''page 84''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: First Strike]]''' ''page 72''</ref>


Injuries to living creatures by the Type-1 Energy Weapon can range from bad to gruesome. Stabs wounds by the Type-1 Energy Weapon are, in most cases, fatal — as the blade passes through the body, the innards of the body are burned and cauterized by the extreme temperatures produced by the blades.<ref>'''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe|Halo: Evolutions]]''' '''[[Midnight in the Heart of Midlothian]]''' ''page 91''</ref> Body fluids in the area of the stab wound are flash vaporized upon contact — organs within the area of the stab wounds can suffer life threatening damage dependent upon the type of organ struck, effects of fluids trapped in organs or arteries in addition to the expansion of heat would cause ruptures or small explosions causing additional damage to the victim. Survival is minimal at best and in the case of non-vital organs being stabbed with the energy sword, proper medical treatment must be applied as soon as possible to ensure long-term survival. Because of the sword's sheer destructive power, dismemberment is another common form of fatality to victims, ranging from decapitation<ref>'''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe|Halo: Evolutions]]''' '''[[Midnight in the Heart of Midlothian]]''' ''page 101''</ref> to bodies being sliced in half.<ref name="cole"/><ref>'''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''' ''page 360''</ref> Loss of limbs is a common injury.<ref>'''[[Halo: The Cole Protocol]]''' ''page 30''</ref> While not fatal, a victim will require a cloned replacement or a mechanical prosthetic.
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 sheer destructive power of the sword makes it a weapon to be feared on any battlefield and is known for its physiological affects on human soldiers.<ref name="enyc"/> The strength and lethality of the sword in the games are compensated for the sake of gameplay.
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 Type-1 Energy Weapon's main disadvantage is that it is purely a close-quarters weapon, any weapon outside of the effective range puts the wielder at risk. It is for this reason the Sangheili approach sword combat on the battlefield in two different ways, by funneling the enemy into close-quarters to allow them to strike, or to apply a form of stealth using both technology and technique. Without these, the Sangheili is vulnerable to attack by different types of weapons both Human and Covenant. Infantry with [[Overshield|over-shielding]] are also more resistant when facing this weapon, as it can take two strikes before the shield system fails.
[[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}}


The Type-1 Energy Weapon is also vulnerable to other magnetic fields, as they can block, disrupt, or possibly even alter the functionality of the sword. Two energy swords clashing together create a small disruption of energy as a result of the same type of magnetic fields clashing together. This clash has a slight area of effect damage that can affect the combatants.
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}}


Like most other Covenant weapons, the Type-1 Energy Weapon is battery-powered, requiring the user to either recharge the weapon or discard it when the power is depleted. Although the handle can be used as a club, the Energy Sword's combat effectiveness at that point is minimal, as other firearms can be used for the same purpose.
===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.}}


==Changes==
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.}}
===Changes from Halo: Combat Evolved to 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 Spec Ops Sangheili and Zealots. The player cannot wield the energy sword, due to a failsafe mechanism that vaporizes the weapon when it is not released properly (e.g. being dropped upon death) by the sword-wielder.


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.
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.


===Changes from Halo 2 to Halo 3===
===Usage===
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.
[[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}}


===Changes from Halo 3 to Halo: Reach===
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)}}
In ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', the sword resembles closely to the design used in [[Halo: Combat Evolved|''Halo: Combat Evolved'']], albeit darker in color. When activated, the sword 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 to its earlier incarnations, having a slightly faster swing than its [[Halo 3|''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 Medal|Sword Spree]], [[Slice 'N Dice Medal|Slice 'N Dice]] or [[Cutting Crew Medal|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.


===In other media===
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}}
In ''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''<nowiki />'s [[The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor]], there is a variety of sword-type weapons hanged on a wall in the dueling chamber of the ''[[Seeker of Truth]]''.<ref>'''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''', '''[[The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor]]''' ''page 14''</ref> These range from apparent energy clubs to sickle-like plasma weapons. The swords used by [[Rtas 'Vadum]] and [[Kusovai]] in their duel change its design a number of times to exhibit the basic structure of the Type-1 with a few slight differences. In the story "Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa", a Sangheili is shown with a very odd, light-pink, sword, with very thin blades.<ref>'''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''', '''[[Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa]]''' ''page 95''</ref>


In ''[[Halo Wars]]'', the [[Arbiter (Title)|Arbiter]], [[Ripa 'Moramee]], sported two energy swords with modified hilts and hand guards. In ''[[Halo Evolutions]]'''s [[Headhunters]] short story, a new energy sword variant is introduced; it is described of being composed of a reddish energy combined with the white flicker of electricity, which gives it a blood-colored glow.
== 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>
 
;Colors
*'''[[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>
 
;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>
 
==Non-canon and dubious canon appearances==
[[File:HTV-JohnvsElites.png|thumb|250px|Covenant Sangheili with energy swords in ''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''.]]
===Silver Timeline===
{{Main|Silver Timeline}}
{{Pattern|Meluth'qelos|energy sword}} are used by Covenant Sangheili against humanity.
 
===Fractures: Entrenched===
{{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}}
 
== Gameplay ==
{{Main|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.
<!--
=== 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.
 
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.
{{Clear}}
 
=== Changes from ''Halo 2'' to ''Halo 3'' ===
[[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}}


==Tactics==
=== Changes from ''Halo 3'' to ''Halo: Reach'' ===
There are two ways a player in ''Halo 2'', ''Halo 3'' and ''Halo: Reach'' can attack, the first is to lunge with the energy sword. 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. The second attack is the simple [[melee]], this performs a quick horizontal or overhanded swipe.
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}}


===Campaign===
=== Changes from ''Halo: Reach'' to ''Halo 4'' ===
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' and ''Halo 2'', use the advantage that the Elites need to be close to one to damage the player's energy shield. On higher difficulties, use the [[Noob Combo]] to eliminate the energy sword-wielding Elites. With this tactic, one can kill a [[Sangheili Honor Guardsman|Elite Honor Guard]] with a single [[Plasma Pistol]] easily in ''Halo 2'', even on [[Heroic]] or [[Legendary]].
[[File:EnergySword-HUD.png|thumb|150px|HUD icon of the energy sword in ''Halo 4''.]]
*In ''Halo 2'' the sword is extremely valuable against Elites in campaign. When facing sword-wielding Elites a sound tactic is to jump and lunge attack them. This will kill them quickly and save one's shields or even life on higher difficulties.
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.
*In both ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3'', the energy sword is one of the best anti-[[Flood]] weapons, as it will destroy Flood Combat and Pure Forms in one strike (although if an [[Combat Form|infected Elite]] still has its shield, it may take two swipes, depending on the difficulty setting).
{{Clear}}
*When fighting against the Flood, an attack with the energy sword will deplete the battery by a very small amount (about 3%) due to their soft tissue, making it useful for extended durations.  Against Infection Forms, no power is drained.
*The energy sword in ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3'' can be used to destroy the corpses of [[Flood]] [[Combat Form]]s so that they cannot be re-infected by [[Infection Form]]s. However, the cutting process ''does'' drain battery power. Although, any weapon's melee attack can be used to destroy combat form corpses if used enough times, even a depleted energy sword hilt.
*In ''Halo 3'' the energy sword is very hard to come by in the campaign outside of [[Floodgate]], [[Cortana (Level)|Cortana]], and [[Halo (Halo 3 Level)|Halo]]. The player can obtain an energy sword by betraying an Elite ally on [[The Covenant (Level)|The Covenant]] by sticking him with a grenade (if Mythic is turned on, the Elite can survive a Plasma Grenade and his energy sword can be taken) or by draining the Arbiter's shield during combat (this happens more frequently on higher difficulties). If the player does so, it is a very good weapon against Brutes, although the battery will deplete very quickly.
*In ''[[Halo: Reach]]'' the sword will knock out the shields of any Elite in one hit on [[Legendary]], and following up with a headshot means that the sword's battery won't deplete. This is an effective strategy on [[Long Night of Solace (level)|Long Night of Solace]], [[The Package (level)|The Package]] and [[Pillar of Autumn (Halo: Reach level)|Pillar of Autumn]]. The sword is also incredibly effective against Hunters on all difficulties, as a hit anywhere stuns them and a single swipe to the back kills them. Opportunities for this in campaign are limited to The Package, but it is a useful tactic in [[Firefight]].


===Multiplayer===
=== Changes from ''Halo 4'' to ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' ===
*The sword is easily one of the best close range weapons to use in ''Halo 2''. The best tactic is to lay into an enemy player with your secondary weapon getting closer, then when within range perform a quick swipe with the sword for the finishing move. However since there is no way of telling which player has the sword, or no sound way to stop it, it has often been labeled as a cheap tactic.
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.
*Using [[Active Camouflage]] with the sword in ''Halo 2'' is not a wise thing to do as the sword in ''Halo 2'' is still visible with it active. In ''Halo 3'' however, using the sword with active camouflage is a sound tactic as it will now cover the sword when picked up.
* Players can melee with the sword as soon as they swap to it.
*In ''Halo 3'' the sword lunge is shorter, and the player cannot perform a quick strike. In addition, the sword's handle is now visible on the character's leg. In order for the sword to be most effective the player must lure a player into a trap where the sword will become effective; camping with the sword in a corner and waiting is the best way to use it to its fullest extent. As a special note, there is a range difference between the B button melee, and the right trigger lunge. The lunge has the maximum range, whilst the B button seems to only work at 1/2 to 3/4 the range. This is, most likely, for balancing, as the B button swings the sword at a much, much faster rate.
* Melee range is drastically increased.
*If the enemy controls the sword room in the ''Halo 3'' multiplayer map [[The Pit (Level)|The Pit]], stick to the outer wall. The range is just short of the wall and if you're lucky your opponent will lunge and miss, giving you the perfect opportunity to kill him or her.
* Unlike its ''Halo 2'' counterpart, its battery can be depleted.
{{Clear}}


===Advanced Tactics===
=== Changes from ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' to ''Halo 5: Guardians'' ===
*It is possible to dodge a lunge from the 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.
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]]''.
*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 parrying electric clash 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 your health, though your screen will flash bright red. This is sometimes known as "fencing". If you time it well enough the sword fight can last indefinitely. Because it is faster, using the melee attack instead of the lunge is required in this scenario, even for the first hit.
*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. In ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', the armor ability [[Armor Ability#Evade|Evade]] is the most effective to use with the Energy Sword.
*In ''Halo 2'' avoiding a sword lunge is extremely difficult, if timed correctly and with a bit of luck, side stepping in the direction of the enemy players free hand may save your life, however this is often difficult. In ''Halo 3'' avoiding the sword lunge can be done by using either a [[Brute Shot]] or a [[M90 Close Assault Weapon System|Shotgun]], there is still some difficulty in pulling it off, but the odds of killing an enemy player using the Sword is much greater than on ''Halo 2''.
*An extremely useful tactic against other players wielding swords, is to, rather than hitting B twice for two quick melees, is to strike first with a melee, and then finish them on with the lunge. This tactic is much faster than two melees.
*In ''Halo: Reach'', there is a new technique in which a player may block a sword lunge with '''any''' weapon they are carrying at the time. This is done by simply meleeing the incoming attack and stopping the attack with a well timed strike. Both players will receive possibly fatal damage from the clash, with the non-sword user taking more damage. This can be used to counter a sword user in close range if you damage them with your gun first.


==Trivia==
If the energy sword's battery is depleted, the player cannot lunge with the sword.
*The energy sword does not appear in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'', because there are no living Sangheili in the game. However, near the deceased body of a Sangheili in Tayari Plaza, one can find two depleted sword hilts.
{{Clear}}
*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, possibly because of the sharp tips of the blade, or because Laser Tag is a shooting game, and the Sword is a melee weapon.
 
*In Halo 2, when you are using both active camouflage and any weapon besides the energy sword, with the energy sword in reserve as your second weapon, and you switch to the sword, before the blade actually displays in full color, there will be a faint outline of the blade already out, as if it's already there and is just camouflaged as well.   
=== Changes from ''Halo 5: Guardians'' to ''Halo Infinite'' ===
*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>
* The energy sword no longer has the ability to Smart Scope
*In the ''Halo 3'' Vidoc [[Et tu Brute?]] there is an unfinished animation depicting a [[Jiralhanae Chieftain]] wielding an energy sword. This is, however, never seen in the hands of Jiralhanae in the final game.
* Lunges from the energy sword depletes ~15% of its battery as opposed to 10% in past games.
*The ''Fable 2: Limited Edition'' comes with [[w:c:Fable:Hal's Sword|"Hal's Sword"]], a crystal blade shaped like an Energy Sword for in-game use, to coincide with the use of [[w:c:Fable:Hal's Armor|"Hal's Armor"]], which resembles [[MJOLNIR]] armor. <ref>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/16/fable-2s-spartan-armor-and-energy-sword-pictured/ '''Joystiq''': ''Fable 2's Spartan armor and energy sword pictured''</ref>
* Power ammunition crates and energy swords in the battlefield refill its battery without the need to pick up a fresh one.
*In ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3'', a glitch can be performed to give the player a [[Silhouette Sword]].
* 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.
*In ''Halo 3 ''and ''Halo: Reach'', [[seven]] [[Forerunner]] glyphs are visible on each side of the energy sword's hilt.
{{Clear}}
*It is possible to get a [[Sword Spree Medal]], even a [[Slice 'N Dice Medal]] with an energy sword that is out of battery.
-->
*The distinctive shape of the energy sword is apparently based on ceremonial Sangheili swords. In ''[[The Duel]]'', [[Harka]] is seen wielding a large bladed weapon that is almost aesthetically identical to the energy sword.
 
*Another possible predecessor of the familiar energy sword is the [[curveblade]], a traditional Sangheili hunting knife. The curveblade closely resembles a shortened, steel, single-bladed energy sword- right down to the shape of its blade, with the same wide, semicurcular part that curls around the handgrip before elongating into a point used for stabbing. In addition, the curveblade apparently predates the introduction of energy swords by some indeterminate amount of time, having been in use for so long that not even the Sangheili have any memory (whether written or as a cultural tradition) of their invention and first usage.
== Trivia ==
*When it spawns in most multiplayer maps, rather than lying on the ground, it will be floating in mid-air blades pointing up until it is hit by any damage or grabbed by a player. One exception is the Halo 2 Vista exclusive map, Uplift, where it respawns lying down.
* 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.
*Prior to the release of Halo 3, it was speculated that the Energy Sword would be dual-wieldable, as seen in various non-game material. Some believed this could be balanced, others believed that it would be grossly overpowered, and yet others believed the only difference would be the apparent doubling of the battery. In any case, the final game does not feature the sword as a dual-wieldable weapon. One possibility is that players may dual-wield the sword with a ranged weapon, such as a Plasma Rifle, and this would greatly mitigate the drawbacks of using a sword.
* 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.
*In ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', Sangheili armor now has a built-in energy dagger used to assassinate (serving as an equivalent to the [[Combat Knife|UNSC Combat Knife]] utilized by Spartans in assassinations). Its appearance is similar to that of the original energy sword. The only differences are that the blade is shorter, is not split at the middle and extends from the top of the wrist rather than from a handle.
* 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.
*Prior to the creation of the energy sword, Sangheili fought with similarly shaped conventional metal blades.
*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].
*In ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', if the [[alert carry]] trick is used, the sword will be lowered by your side and the left arm will be by your side as well, unlike [[Halo 2]] and [[Halo 3|3]], where the left arm is in front of the chest.
 
*In ''Halo 2'', the Elites seem to prefer the energy sword to all other weapons, this can be seen when they react negatively to a trade of a more powerful weapon, such as a Fuel Rod Cannon, for an Energy Sword that they are carrying. This is most likely because of the energy sword's honored status in Sangheili culture.
== Gallery ==
*In Halo Wars and Halo Combat Evolved, the Energy Sword seems to "leak" plasma. It doesn't do this in later games however, possibly meaning that later swords had improved energy barrier technology.
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of energy swords|gameplay=yes}}
=== Concept art and illustrations===
<gallery>
File:H2 ConceptArt ArbiterAndChief.png|''Halo 2'' concept art of [[Thel 'Vadam]] wielding a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword.
File:HW_Arbiter_EnergySword_Concept.jpg|A study of [[Arbiter]] [[Ripa 'Moramee]]'s custom energy swords in ''Halo Wars''.
File:Fal - The Duel.png|Arbiter [[Fal 'Chavamee]] dual wielding energy swords in ''[[Halo Legends]]: [[The Duel]]''.
File:Schism 2.png|A Sangheili dual wielding ''Pelosus''-pattern energy swords in ''[[The Return]]''.
File:BL Reff kills Thon.png|[[Reff 'Talamee]] kills his [[Thon 'Talamee|brother]] with an energy sword during the [[Battle of Line-Installation 1-4]] in ''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''.
File:H2A Terminals - Thel and Marine.png|Thel 'Vadamee with an energy sword in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''{{'}}s [[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|terminals]].
File:Hunters in the Dark full cover.jpg|[[N'tho 'Sraom]] with a ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword during [[Operation: FAR STORM]] in ''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]''.
File:HSOI-CoverArt.jpg|Rtas 'Vadum with a ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword in ''[[Halo: Shadow of Intent]]''.
File:Leon-011.png|Concept art of [[Leon-011]] with a ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword for ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''.
File:HLC The Great Journey.png|Thel 'Vadam wielding a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword, alongside John-117, in [[Halo Legendary Crate]].
File:Halo3Mythos.jpg|Thel 'Vadam wielding an energy sword in ''[[Halo Mythos]]''.
</gallery>


==Gallery==
=== Screenshots===
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:Sword Study HRB 1.jpg|A study of the energy sword as seen in the game ''Halo Reach''.
File:Swordelite.jpg|A Zealot with a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword as it appears in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''.
File:Energy Sword Halo3.jpg|The energy sword as it appears in ''[[Halo 3]]''.
File:Gold Elite.JPG|A Zealot wielding a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword in ''Halo 2''.
File:H3 Energy Sword profile.JPG|The energy sword in ''[[Halo 3]]''.
File:H3 Energy Sword render.png|A render of the energy sword in ''Halo 3''.
File:H3-EnergySwordProfile.png|An in-game profile view of the energy sword from ''Halo 3''.
File:H3 DLC RatsNest 1stPerson-02.jpg|First-person view of the energy sword in ''Halo 3''.
File:H3 Foundry Spartan clash.jpg|Two Spartans parrying in the air on [[Foundry]] in ''Halo 3''.
File:Swordstrike.JPG|A sword lunge in ''Halo 3''.
File:Sword Study2.jpg|A study of the energy sword from ''Halo 3''.
File:Sword Study2.jpg|A study of the energy sword from ''Halo 3''.
File:Swordelite.jpg|A Zealot with an energy sword as it appears in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:HaloWars-EnergySword-PlasmaBleed.png|An energy sword as seen in the ''[[Halo Wars]]'' announcement trailer.
File:Energy-sword.jpg|The energy sword as it appears in ''Halo 2''.
File:LegendsPackage-John117-EnergySword.jpg|[[John-117]] wielding an energy sword against [[Thel 'Lodamee]] in ''Halo Legends: [[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''.
File:Black Sword.JPG|Another view of the energy sword from ''[[Halo 3]]''.
File:HR FieldMarshalSword.png|A [[Sangheili Field Marshal]] prepares to swing down his energy sword in ''Halo: Reach''.
File:News2_1.jpg|Hal's sword, a downloadable bonus in the Fable 2 Collector's Edition (note the more traditional grip).
File:Cartographer Zealot.jpg|A Zealot with an energy sword in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''.
File:1221845548_Elites_duel_wielding_energy_swords.jpg‎|[[Rtas 'Vadum]] and [[Kusovai]] wielding dual energy sword during a training exercise.
File:H4-Commander&Storm.png|A [[Commander (Covenant)|Commander]] with a ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword in ''[[Spartan Ops]]''.
File:79621875-Medium.jpg|Two Spartans parrying in the air on [[Foundry]].
File:Nightfall - Sangheili attack.png|A Hesduros Zealot with an energy sword during the [[Terrorist attack on Sedra City]] in ''[[Halo: Nightfall]]''.
File:Swordstrike.JPG|A sword lunge.
File:H2A-Rtas&Arbiter.jpg|[[Rtas 'Vadum]] with a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:HR - Energy dagger.png|A smaller, more compact variant of the standard energy sword called the [[energy dagger]] that is used for Assassinations.
File:H2AZealot.jpg|A Zealot with an energy sword in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:Halo_Reach_Energy_Sword.jpg|An energy sword as it appears in the ''[[Halo: Reach Beta]]''.
File:H2AMP-EnergySword.png|A [[HOPLITE-class Mjolnir|Hoplite]]-clad Spartan using a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword on [[Stonetown]] in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:Type_1_Energy_Sword_Reticle.jpg|An energy sword's crosshair as seen in the ''[[Halo: Reach Beta]]''.
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>


==List of appearances==
=== Merchandise ===
{{Appearances|Halo: Combat Evolved|Halo 2|Halo 3|Halo: Reach|Halo Wars|Halo: The Fall of Reach|Halo: The Flood|Halo: First Strike|Halo: Ghosts of Onyx|Halo: Evolutions|Halo Graphic Novel|Halo: Blood Line|Halo Legends}}
<gallery>
File:HaloCovenantEnergySword-PropReplica.png|Prop replica version of the energy sword from ''Halo 3''.
File:McF - S3 Elite SpecOps.jpg|[[McFarlane Toys]] [[McFarlane Toys/Halo: Reach Series 3|figure]] of a SpecOps Sangheili with an energy sword from ''Halo: Reach''.
File:SquareEnix H2A 4.jpg|[[Square Enix|Play Arts Kai]] [[Square Enix/Halo 2: Anniversary|figure]] of John-117 with a ''Pelosus''-pattern energy sword from ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:Arbiterlegendarycollection.jpg|McFarlane Toys [[McFarlane Toys/Legendary Collection Series|Legendary Collection Series]]' figure of Thel 'Vadam and the energy sword from ''Halo 3''.
File:Halo-Mattel-Energy-Sword.png|Mattel prop replica ''Domotos''-pattern energy sword available in 2016.
</gallery>
 
== List of appearances ==
{{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]]''
*''[[Halo: Age of Retribution]]''
{{Col-end}}
 
== Notes ==
{{Ref/Notes}}  


==Sources==
== Sources ==
<references/>
{{Ref/Sources|2}}
{{Melee Weapons}}
{{Covenant sidearms}}


==See also==
*[[Type-2 Energy Weapon/Hammer]]
*[[Unlimited Energy Sword]]
{{Covenant Weapons}}
[[Category:Melee Weapons]]
[[Category:Covenant infantry weapons]]
[[Category:Covenant infantry weapons]]
[[Category:Infantry plasma weapons]]
[[Category:Infantry plasma weapons]]

Latest revision as of 12:16, November 8, 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]

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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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