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| {{New Content}}
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| {{Game Info Box
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| |name='''''Halo Wars'''''
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| |image=Halo Wars - Cover Art - Final.jpg
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| |imageSize=260
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| |Developer=[[Ensemble Studios]]
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| |Publisher= [[wikipedia:Microsoft Game Studios|Microsoft Game Studios]]
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| |Genre= [[Real-time Strategy]]
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| |US Date Released= 02 of February 2009 <ref>http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Halo-Wars-Xbox-360-882224552042/sem/rpsm/oid/216806/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do Circuit City Pre-order site.</ref><ref>http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=67109 Gamestop Pre-order site.</ref><ref>http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=9071194&type=product&id=1218016462627 Best Buy Pre-order site</ref>
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| |UK Date Released=Febuary 2009
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| |Game modes=[[Campaign Mode]], [[multiplayer|Multi-player]], <br> [[co-op|Co-op Campaign Mode]].
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| |ESRB=Teen (T) for Mild Blood, Mild Language, and Violence
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| |Platform=[[Xbox 360]]
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| |Media=DVD
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| |Website=http://www.halowars.com/
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| }}
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| <center>''Looking for [[Halopedia:Halo Wars RPG|PROJECT: Halo Wars]], the Halopedian project?''</center>
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| '''''Halo Wars''''' is a Real-Time Strategy game that begins in [[2531]], during the Covenant eradication of the Outer Colonies in the [[Human-Covenant War]]. The game is being developed by [[Ensemble Studios]], and is currently planned as an Xbox 360 exclusive.
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| ==Summary==
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| [[Image:HWSPARTAN.PNG|thumb|left|A SPARTAN in ''Halo Wars'' from [[SPARTAN Group Omega]].]]
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| [[Image:HwaIMG-9055-control.jpg|thumb|The ''Halo Wars'' control scheme.]]
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| In ''Halo Wars'', players can command armies of familiar and new [[UNSC]] units in its first encounters against the [[Covenant]], a coalition of alien races that threatens to eradicate all of mankind. "''Halo Wars''" will immerse gamers in an early period of the ''Halo'' universe, allowing them to experience events 20 years prior to ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''.
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| With the guidance of all the [[AI]] [[Serina]], the player leads UNSC soldiers and vehicles against classic Covenant foes, such as [[Grunts]], [[Elites]], [[Ghosts]], [[Banshees]] etc. Each group has its own strengths and abilities in battle. Strategic-minded players who react well under pressure will emerge victorious over their foe.
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| ''Halo Wars'' can be played online via Xbox LIVE and through the single-player or co-op campaign. Published by Microsoft Game Studios, "''Halo Wars''" is a title exclusive to the Xbox 360. Despite speculation of a version for the PC, [[Ensemble]] and [[Microsoft]] have repeatedly said that no such plans have been made or even considered for it. It has been confirmed that the [[Covenant]] will be a playable race only in skirmish.
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| Ensemble Studios began recording the music for the game in March, with Ensemble's Music and Sound Director Stephen Rippy flying to Prague for the orchestral and choral parts in Seattle for the piano and mixing.<ref>http://www.halowars.com/news/articles/archive/2008/03/27/Halo-Wars-Monthly-Update-03.27.08.aspx ''Halo Wars'' Monthly Update 03/27/08</ref> At this point in time, they are working on in-game units and how they interact with each other.<ref>[http://forums.halo.fr/viewtopic.php?p=315181 Interview-Graeme Divine].</ref> Alpha testing has also begun, with testers having been reported as playing the game over Xbox Live. <ref>http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/2008/04/18/halo-wars-alpha-spotted-on-xbox-live/</ref>
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| The game was featured at the 2008 E3 event, held in July. It was shown on G4's E3 08 LIVE as a hands on demo.<ref name = "Next Gen">2008-05-07, [http://www.next-gen.biz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=11227&Itemid=59&limit=1&limitstart=2 Next-Gen’s 30 Most Anticipated Games of E3]. ''Joe Keiser''. Accessed on 2008-13-07</ref> Some newer off-screen demos where released, showing how controls are made up and how battles proceed.<ref>http://xbox360.ign.com/dor/objects/857436/halo-wars/videos/3halowars_beatingmission_100908.html</ref>
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| [[Image:SparrowHawk.jpg|thumb|right|A picture of ''Halo Wars'' from the ''Halo Wars'' website..]]
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| ==Plot==
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| [[Image:HaloWarsGameplay2.jpg|thumb|left|UNSC and Covenant units clash in-game. Note in particular the apparent Halo in the background of the screenshot.]]
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| {{Quote|At this point in time, the Covenant is at its most evil. They are hell-bent on the destruction of humanity, on scouring us from the universe.|Graeme Devine, Lead Writer, formerly Lead Developer.}}
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| The game's story is told through in-game cut scenes and in-game moments, as with the other ''Halo'' games. The game is set in [[2531]],<ref>http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=168577</ref> it focuses around the [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marine]] forces of the [[UNSC Spirit of Fire|UNSC ''Spirit of Fire'']] as they engage Covenant ground forces after the discovery of an ancient artifact during a journey to the planet [[Harvest]], at which point has been partially glassed, the first planet to be attacked by the Covenant. [[Image:Harvest Plasma Glassed.jpg|thumb|right|Harvest just after the [[UNSC Spirit of Fire]] arrived in the system]]
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| <ref>http://uk.gamespot.com/xbox360/strategy/halowars/news.html?sid=6174221</ref> The story will thus begin with the UNSC's early battles on Harvest, but will also feature another colony world, [[Arcadia]], which holds "''something of great interest to the Covenant.''" The planet is subsequently invaded by the Covenant, and the UNSC must evacuate the planet while engaging the invasion force. While no Halo Installations will be featured in the campaign, they are likely to be present as at least a few multiplayer maps.<ref>'''Gamepro''', July Edition, pg. 52</ref>
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| The majority of the campaign (15 missions in total)<ref>Xbox World 360 Issue 63 p9</ref> will take place in the polar/mountainous, parts of the jungle, and ruin regions of the world, allowing Ensemble Studios to "''do some great stuff with mountains, snow, ice, forests and some [[Forerunner]] structures.''"<ref>http://www.halowars.com/news/articles/archive/2008/02/27/Lance-Hoke-Question-_2600_-Answer.aspx</ref> In addition to striking into new territory, past events not just from the games will be expanded upon.<ref name = "Imagine">[http://www.360magazine.co.uk/games/halo_wars/halo_wars.html Imagine Publishing]. ''Simon Miller''. Accessed on 2008-13-07</ref>
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| It has been confirmed that the Master Chief will not be making an appearance in the game. There will be a group of SPARTANs that are called [[SPARTAN Group Omega]]. In contrast, the ''Spirit of Fire'' is set to be "full of new characters," such as the AI [[Serina]] and the ''[[Spirit of Fire]]''<nowiki>'s</nowiki> commander, [[Cutter]].<ref>[http://forums.halo.fr/viewtopic.php?p=315181 Interview-Graeme Devine]</ref> At least some of these characters will go planet side to aid the player. It has also been confirmed that the single player campaign is purely from the UNSC's perspective. Co-op for campaign over Xbox Live has been announced too.<ref name = "Imagine"/>
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| == Possible Elements ==
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| *It has been confirmed in the February Monthly Update that there will be no space battles in the game.<ref>http://www.halowars.com/news/articles/archive/2008/02/14/Halo-Wars-Monthly-Update-02.14.08.aspx ''Halo Wars'' Monthly Update 02/14/08</ref>
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| *''Halo Wars'' will incorporate the concept of "Socket Bases", in which only specific areas can be used to build specific buildings.<ref>http://www.halowars.com/GameInfo/UNSC.aspx</ref>
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| *'Supply runs' are set to be featured, allowing a regular rejuvenation of supply for the production of units as opposed to a resource gathering system.<ref>Xbox World 360 Issue 63 p7</ref>
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| *Forerunner structures have been added into the game.
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| *Ensemble has stated the camera angle and zoom can be adjusted so that the player can zoom in on one unit, while playing, and then see the whole battlefield.
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| *Downloadable content has been planned for the game, ranging from new units and maps to potentially new campaign levels.<ref>http://www.gameplayer.com.au/Home/FEATURES/FEATURE/tabid/1488/Default.aspx?CID=a05dd664-5e27-4607-ad73-e74bab6e4016&v7Pager=4</ref>. This could perhaps expand to new game campaigns.
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| {{Quote|We have plans for extra units and extra maps, and then beyond that we’ll look at what else we can add further down the track, such as extra campaigns and so on. I think it’s definitely a good way of consistently breathing new life into the product via DLC.|Graeme Devine}}
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| *It may also feature a map editor, either shipping with the game, or as downloadable content from Xbox Live Marketplace.<ref>http://www.gameplayer.com.au/Home/FEATURES/FEATURE/tabid/1488/Default.aspx?CID=a05dd664-5e27-4607-ad73-e74bab6e4016&v7Pager=3</ref>
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| {{Quote|We actually talked quite a lot about that, we’ve got a very powerful map editor, so we’ve talked about whether we could release that with the game or via Xbox Live and allow people to make their own maps, and then work out a way for users to share the maps. I would love for that to be in the final product. Because I think user created content is just fantastic. I think it’s absolutely the future, because people love to tell their own stories, people love to make up their own little war campaigns, and there are a lot of people out there who are incredibly talented.”|Graeme Devine}}
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| *It is stated so far that the currency featured in the game will be Energy and Resources. It is a strong certainty that large vehicles such as the Covenant ''[[Scarab]]'' will be costly.
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| *It is unknown whether or not the [[Covenant]] [[Yanme'e|Drone]] race will be included for the Covenant. At this time in the Halo Universe, they still filled a minor technical role, rather than combat.
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| *In multiplayer, certain vehicles and powers are only available for certain leaders. The player must choose a leader at the beginning of the match.
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| *It has been announced that the cinematics will function as loading screens. It is unknown if they must be watched through or can be skipped.{{Verify_source}}
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| ==Characters==
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| [[Image:HaloWarsArbiter.jpg|right|thumb|140px|The Arbiter that appears in ''Halo Wars''.]]
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| Aside from cutscenes and on-the-battlefield appearances, characters in Halo Wars often appear in "talking head" animations, where a small view screen appears in the upper corner showing the face of the character speaking at the moment. This is typically utilized when Captain Cutter or Serina issue in-game orders or advice.
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| ===UNSC===
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| *[[James Cutter|Captain Cutter]]
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| *[[Serina]]
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| *[[Anders|Professor Anders]]
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| *[[John Forge|Sergeant Forge]]
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| ===Covenant===
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| *An unknown [[Unnamed Arbiter (Halo Wars)|Arbiter]]
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| *An unknown Brute [[Chieftain]]
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| *[[Prophet of Regret]]
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| ==Gameplay Elements==
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| ===[[United Nations Space Command]]===
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| [[Image:Marines.PNG|right|thumb|140px|[[UNSC Marine Corps|UNSC Marines]]]]
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| *'''Infantry'''
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| **[[SPARTAN Group Omega]]: SPARTAN-IIs are individual units who are superior to Marines. They can receive the ability to dual-wield weapons and can hijack enemy vehicles, so the player can control them. They can also be upgraded with [[AIE-486H Heavy Machine Gun|chainguns]] and AIs which can increase their speed, much like Cortana does for John-117 in [[The Fall of Reach|Halo: The Fall of Reach]], and help them hijack vehicles faster. <ref name = "IGN E3 2008: ''Halo Wars'' Hands-on">[http://au.xbox360.ign.com/articles/890/890357p1.html E3 2008: Halo Wars Hands-on]. ''Alex Simmons''. Accessed on 2008-17-07</ref> When a SPARTAN hijacks an enemy vehicle, their rank is added to the vehicle's rank and the captured vehicle's stats are increased. Only three SPARTANs can be deployed at a time. It has been confirmed that their health will regenerate over time; Spartans do not have shields, as they are outfitted with the MJOLNIR Mk. IV, although this should also mean that they couldn’t support AI's, a fact that has been apparently overlooked.
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| **[[UNSC Marine Corps|UNSC Marines]]: Marines are the basic infantry of the UNSC who have the special ability to throw grenades. The squads can be upgraded to include a [[Rocket Launcher]].<ref name = "IGN E3 2008: ''Halo Wars'' Hands-on"/>. They usually operate in teams of five.
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| ***[[Hellbringer|Flamethrower Marine]]:<ref name="Forum">http://www.halowars.com/forums/thread/242938.aspx</ref> Called the ''Hellbringers'', these Marines are specialists equipped with heavier armour and flamethrowers which can be used to torch entire infantry units. They can be upgraded with Flash Bang Grenades, which stun enemies when hit, napalm ammunition that will most likely increase the damage they caused and oxide tanks, which also increase damage. <ref name = "IGN E3 2008: ''Halo Wars'' Hands-on"/>
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| ***Machine Gun teams: These are Marines who carry about an [[AIE-486H Heavy Machine Gun]] that can be deployed and fired.{{Verify_source}}
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| ***[[Medic]]: This is a unit capable of healing injured infantry. These are gained when an infantry unit reaches a large size.<ref name = "IGN E3 2008: ''Halo Wars'' Hands-on"/>
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| ***[[ODST]]: An available upgrade for infantry<ref name = "OXM">January 2009, ''Official Xbox Magazine'', pp 38-43</ref>
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| *'''Weapons'''
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| **[[M6D Personal Defense Weapon System]] (Magnum)
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| **[[M19 SSM Rocket Launcher]]
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| **[[M90 Close Assault Weapon System]] (Shotgun)
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| **[[MA5B Individual Combat Weapon System]] (Assault Rifle)
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| **[[Sniper Rifle System 99C-S2 AM|SRS99C-S2 AM Sniper Rifle]]
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| **[[NA4 Flamethrower]]
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| **[[AIE-486H Heavy Machine Gun]]
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| **[[Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle]] (Spartan Laser)
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| **[[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun]] (SMG)
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| [[Image:Tank.PNG|right|thumb|140px|[[M808 Scorpion MBT]]]] [[Image:Wartie.PNG|right|thumb|170px|[[M12 LRV|M12 LRV (Warthog)]]]][[Image:Pel.PNG|right|thumb|140px|[[Dropship 77-Troop Carrier Pelican]]]][[Image:WaH.jpg|right|thumb|140px|U.N.S.C "Flaming" Warthog and Covenant Honor Guard Wraith]]
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| *'''Vehicles'''
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| **[[Warthog|M12 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle]] (Warthog) : Can be upgraded to carry a [[M41 LAAG]] or a [[M66 Gauss Cannon]] at a reduction of speed. Can jump gaps, and has ramming ability.
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| **[[Warthog|U.N.S.C "Flaming" Warthog M12 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle]] (Warthog) : Only available if game is pre-ordered.
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| **[[M808 Scorpion MBT]]: The M808 Scorpion is the basic human tank that can be upgraded to the 'Grizzly' variant
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| ***Variant 1: The Scorpion mounts a much larger cannon
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| ***Variant 2: Same as above but the coaxial gun has been upgraded.
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| ***[[Grizzly|Grizzly variant]]<ref name=Forum/>: An upgrade of the Scorpion, it packs two cannons and a flamethrower.
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| **[[Unknown Armored Fighting Vehicle]]: Apparently an armoured fighting vehicle, similar to the cut [[Cougar]]. Might be a character's unique unit.
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| **[[Behemoth-class Troop Transport]]<ref name=Forum/> (Elephant): The Elephant, as it is more commonly known, can carry squads into combat and can fulfill the role of a barracks in the field, along with having the ability to be upgraded with a cannon and twin engines to upgrade speed.{{Verify_source}} It is [[Captain Cutter|Captain Cutter's]] unique unit.
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| **[[Dropship 77-Troop Carrier Pelican|D77-TC Pelican Dropship]]: Pelicans can carry units into combat and provide fire support.
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| **[[Shortsword-class Bomber]]: Shortsword bombers operate low-altitude bombing runs that can destroy or freeze enemy units.
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| **[[Hornet]]<ref name=Forum/>: The Hornet is a light gunship that can carry two passengers to provide support and fire on enemy ground and air targets.
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| ***[[Sparrowhawk]]: The Sparrowhawk is a tank busting aerodyne that provides heavy fire power in an air fight. Has been confirmed to be an upgrade to the Hornet.{{Verify_source}}
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| **[[Rhino]]: The Rhino is a heavy tracked unit that has a greater defense but lower attack than the Scorpion.
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| **[[Wolverine]]: The Wolverine provides anti-aircraft fire to shoot down enemy aircraft, such as Banshees.
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| **[[Cobra]]<ref name=Forum/>: The Cobra is a heavy anti-building vehicle armed with a couple of [[M66 Gauss Cannon|gauss cannons]], which can easily tear apart enemy armor. Can be deployed to fire a larger single gauss cannon, sacrificing its mobility<ref>[http://www.halowars.com/GameInfo/vehicledepot.aspx#Cobra]</ref>.
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| **[[Cyclops|Cyclops Exoskeleton]]<ref name=Forum/>: The Cyclops is a re-appropriated support exoskeleton, usually used for construction and ammo carrying purposes that can crush enemies in close combat. It is a faction-specific unit.
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| **[[Vulture]]: The vulture is a large gunship that can deliver heavy amounts of fire against all ground targets.
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| **[[Albatross]]: The Albatross is used to ferry supplies from the Spirit of Fire to ground-side facilities.
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| **[[UNSC Heavy Dropship]]: Appearing at the beginning of the ''Field Trip To Harvest'' cinematic, the new dropship, larger than both the Pelican and Albatross, delivers extremely large objects to ground positions, such as portions of [[firebase]]s.
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| *'''Buildings'''
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| **[[UNSC Firebase]]: Provides the basic base of the UNSC with optional 'add on' buildings that can increase its usefulness.
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| ***[[UNSC Reactor]]: The Reactor provides power for a UNSC base to run on.
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| ***[[UNSC Air Pad]]: This provides UNSC air units along with upgrades for them.
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| ***[[Missile silo]]: Might house offensive warheads, similar to the [[11-B1 ICBM]].
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| ***[[Vehicle Depot]]: A Vehicle depot provides heavier vehicles for the UNSC to use.
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| ***[[Field Armory]]: A Combination of Machine Shop and Laboratory that provides high tech upgrades for the UNSC.
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| ***[[Drill Grounds]]: (unconfirmed).
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| ***[[UNSC Barracks]]: The barracks can provide a number of infantry types for combat.
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| ***[[UNSC Supply Pad]]: Supply is used to get supplies from the ''Spirit of Fire'' via Albatross dropships.
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| ***[[Base Turret]]: The Base Turret appears to be a light autocannon that provides heavy anti-infantry defense and light anti-vehicle defense.
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| *'''Ship Support'''
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| **''[[Spirit Of Fire]]'': The ''Spirit of Fire'' provides both direct and indirect support by sending down troops and buildings, deploying bombers, or directly firing one of its MAC guns on the surface.
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| **'''[[Magnetic Accelerator Cannon|MAC]] Blast''': Varying numbers of slugs can be used to cause varying levels of destruction, with each being individually aimed.<ref>http://www.shacknews.com/featuredarticle.x?id=446</ref>
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| **'''[[Carpet Bomb]]''': A [[Shortsword]] bomber is called in, bombing a region on the battlefield.<ref>http://e3.g4tv.com/e32008/videos/26921/Hands_On_Halo_Wars.html</ref>
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| **'''[[Cryo Bomb]]''': A Bomb that freezes even Scarab walkers, allowing them to be easily destroyed with conventional weapons. <ref>http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41104.html</ref>
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| ===[[Covenant]]===
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| [[Image:Brute_1024.jpg|thumb|right|A Brute Chieftain in ''Halo Wars'']][[Image:Ilmhalowarstheme1SystemBlade.jpg|thumb|right|Concept art for the [[Elite]] grasping two Energy Swords.]][[Image:Gameprohalowars.jpg|200px|thumb|A Covenant Scarab destroys various UNSC vehicles]]
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| *'''Infantry'''
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| **[[Lance]]: Lances consist of a Sangheili Minor or Major, leading groups of smaller Unggoy. They have the secondary ability to throw plasma grenades.
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| ***[[Ranger]]: Sangheili Rangers possess the ability to fly anywhere on the map and destroy enemy infantry.
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| ***[[Stealth Elite|Stealth Sangheili]]: Armed with a dual energy swords and an [[Active Camo]] generator, they can tear UNSC infantry apart.
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| ***[[Honor Guard Elites]]
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| ***[[Unnamed Arbiter|Arbiter]]: A leader unit in multiplayer. He also might be Cutter's counterpart.
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| **[[Mgalekgolo]] (Hunters): Hunters are heavily armored and armed with fuel rod-launching Assault Cannons, like they are in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''. They are excellent anti-vehicle infantry, and a single shot will most likely kill a group of marines in 2-3 hits. Its unknown if they will be able to melee enemy units in close combat, but it is speculated that they will have that option.
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| **[[Kig-yar]] (Jackals): Jackals come in large lances of around ten or more and provide decent defense against Marines armed with conventional weapons but little defense against grenades, explosives or vehicles. Can also be armed with Beam Rifles and can be positioned in Covenant Watchtowers to provide a higher range of view.
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| **[[San 'Shyuum]] (Prophets): Prophets fight from their [[Gravity Thrones]] and can attack enemy infantry with their destructive plasma weapons.
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| **[[Jiralhanae]] (Brutes): In battle the Brutes wield Brute Shots, which are devastating against infantry and effective against light vehicles. Due to their limited battlefield use prior to the events of ''[[Halo 2]]'', they are apparently leader-specific units.
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| ***Jiralhanae [[Brute Minor|Minor]].
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| ***Jiralhanae [[Brute Major|Major]]/[[Brute Ultra|Ultra]].[http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v164/bastable/brutes.jpg]
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| ***Jiralhanae [[Brute Chieftain|Chieftain]].
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| **[[Unggoy]] (Grunts): Armed with Plasma Pistols that can be upgraded to Needlers. Needlers are very effective against infantry. Usually lead by an Elite Minor or Major. One member of the lance can be granted a Fuel Rod Gun, giving the lance greater anti-vehicle capability.
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| *'''Weapons'''
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| **[[Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword]] (Energy Sword)
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| **[[Type-2 Energy Weapon/Hammer]] (Gravity Hammer)
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| **[[Type-25 Directed Energy Pistol]] (Plasma Pistol)
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| **[[Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle]] (Plasma Rifle)
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| **[[Type-25 Carbine]] (Spiker) (Possibly)
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| **[[Type-25 Grenade Launcher]] (Brute Shot)
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| **[[Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher]] (Needler)
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| **[[Type-33 Light Anti-Armor Weapon]] (Fuel Rod Gun)
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| **[[Type-50 Sniper Rifle System]] (Beam Rifle)
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| **[[Type-51 Carbine]] (Covenant Carbine)
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| *'''Vehicles'''
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| **[[Type-26 Ground Support Aircraft]] (Banshee): The Banshee can attack infantry, tanks and other air vehicles due to its mixture of twin plasma cannons and fuel rod cannon.
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| **[[Type-47 Ultra Heavy Assault Platform]] (Scarab): The Scarab is a super-unit that can destroy infantry, ground vehicles, and aircraft with ease. The Scarab is extremely resilient to weapons fire, but not MAC strikes. Both the ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3'' versions have been seen. <ref>http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41104.html</ref>
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| **[[Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle]] (Ghost): The Ghost is a light attack vehicle that excels against infantry but not other vehicles.
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| **[[Type-25 Rapid Assault Vehicle]] (Chopper): Is able to be used by the Brute faction.<ref>http://au.xbox360.ign.com/dor/objects/857436/halo-wars/images/halo-wars-20081113023451375.html</ref>
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| **[[Type-25 Wraith]]: The Wraith is the main battle tank of the Covenant and is armed with a plasma mortar and a plasma turret and can decimate enemy vehicles and infantry and can be upgraded with a shield. Comes with a "plasma burn" special ability.
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| ***[[Type-52 Wraith]]: May not appear in the final game.
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| ***[[Honor Guard Wraith]]: In the special edition only, colored red and adorned with yellowed stripes and designs.
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| ***[[Unknown Wraith]]: May just be an early design.
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| **[[DX-class Dropship|DX-class Dropship Spirit]]: The Spirit is the rival to the UNSC Albatross, capable of carrying both vehicles and infantry and giving them fire support.
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| **[[Vampire]]: A Covenant flying vehicle; a potent craft fitted to fight against hostile air vehicles.
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| **[[Covenant Carrier]]<ref>http://uk.xbox360.ign.com/articles/901/901496p1.html</ref>: Used by the Covenant to support ground operations, glass the surface of a planet, and deliver supplies planet-side with a gravity lift. Parallels the UNSC Spirit of Fire in in-game function.
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| **[[Locust]]: A smaller counterpart to the Covenant [[Scarab]] which is described as a "building-killer".{{Verify_source}}
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| *'''Buildings'''
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| **[[Type-26 ASG]] (Shade): The ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' variant of the Shade will be featured as a defensive Structure.<ref>http://www.mondoxbox.com/immagini.php?game=1128&view=1&start=9#topnav</ref>
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| **[[Deployable Lookout Tower]]: Can be used to garrison units from either player (in co-op), increasing their combat capabilities.
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| **[[Covenant Firebase]]: Provides the basic base of the Covenant with optional 'add on' buildings that can increase its usefulness.
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| **[[Anti-Vehicle Barrier]]: Same device used to block tunnels on the level [[Tsavo Highway]] in Halo 3. <ref>http://xbox360.gamespy.com/dor/objects/857436/halo-wars/images/halo-wars-20081009024128843.html</ref>
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| [[Image:Glassinglaz0r.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Glassing in ''Halo Wars'' Also note the unidentified Covenant unit in the top-left.]]
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| *'''Ship Support'''
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| **[[Glassing]]: This appears to be used as a Covenant superweapon. The glassing ship can fire this from orbit to destroy ground positions and units. Can be upgraded for an even more devastating effect. This is named the "cleansing beam" in the most recent demo.
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| ===Neutral===
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| ====Forerunner====
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| *[[Sentinels]]<ref name=Forum/>
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| *[[Sentinel Shop]]: Produces [[Sentinels]] for the player who controls it.
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| *[[Forerunner Supply Elevator]]: Produces limitless supplies for the player who controls it.
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| ====The Flood====
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| [[Image:Halo Wars Flood.jpg|thumb|left|Flood biomass and tentacles ensnares an [[Elephant]], with Flood [[Infection Forms]] and [[Combat Forms]] in the backround.]]
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| {{Quote|There is quite a bit of concern regarding how we’re going to fit the [[Flood]] into our game and keep it in canon which surprised me, but I promised them all that the [[Halo 1]] canon is intact and that they would have to wait and see how we integrate the [[Flood]].|Graeme Devine<ref>http://halowars.com/news/articles/archive/2008/10/14/Hello-from-TGS.aspx</ref>}}
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| The [[Flood]] have been announced to be a faction within the game, though the player is unable to use them. The [[Flood]] gain bases and units by taking over [[Human]] and [[Covenant]] bases and troops, and most likely growing flood biomass around it to signify that it is under Flood control. Nothing else is known at this time.{{Verify_source}}
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| What has been shown in one of the more recent ''Halo Wars'' demos was that [[Flood]] [[Infection Form]]s, [[Combat Form]]s, and what look remotely like [[Gravemind]] tentacles and Proto-Graveminds will be the Flood's main attack force. Whether any pure forms or any new forms of [[Flood]] will appear is as yet unknown.
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| *[[Infection Form]] Has the ability to crawl over and onto walls, increasing its potent abilities, and is able to reach ground no other forces can reach. iIt is likely that when a group reaches an enemy unit, it will bite them, then infect them if human or elite, turning them into combat forms and using their weapons.
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| *[[Combat form]] The standard fighting force of the [[Flood]]. So far only human and Sangheili forms have been seen.
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| *[[Carrier Form]] Most likely a suicidal unit, explodes and delivers its payload of [[Infection Forms]] directly into enemy lines.
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| ===Technology Advancement===
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| The tech tree will be a different experience for both factions. When playing as the [[UNSC]], the player advances by building reactors, upgrading buildings, and purchasing upgrades in a fairly standard, though streamlined, manner. The [[Covenant]] moves through the tech-tree in [[History of the Covenant|Ages]] rather than small steps.{{Verify_source}}.
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| ===Leader Abilities===
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| Certain characters belonging to both the [[Covenant]] and the [[UNSC]] have been confirmed to in-game be "leader units", all of which have unique in-game abilities. Currently known leaders are [[James Cutter|Captain James Cutter]], [[John Forge|Sergeant John Forge]], [[Anders|Professor Anders]], an [[Unnamed Arbiter (Halo Wars)|unknown Arbiter]], an unknown [[Brute Chieftain]] and the [[Prophet of Regret]]. Captain Cutter's unique ability is to call down an Elephant from the [[Spirit of Fire]], which is a mobile barracks in the game. It is believed that the [[Prophet of Regret]]'s ability is to glass enemy forces (known as the "cleansing beam" in Halo Wars), which causes significant damage to both structures and units.
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| At least in the case of the Covenant, only one leader is allowed on the battlefield at a time. This is offset by the Covenant leaders' ability to empower surrounding friendlies.<ref name = "Hands On">2008-17-11, [http://www.videogamer.com/xbox360/halo_wars/preview-1380.html Halo Wars Hands-on Preview]. ''Videogamer''. Accessed on 2008-19-11</ref>
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| ==Alpha Test==
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| [[Image:1211353155 Halowarsalpha.jpg|thumb|left|A screenshot taken of an Alpha playtester in [[Sway (Level|Sway]].]]
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| An Alpha test was done for ''Halo Wars''<ref>http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/2008/04/18/halo-wars-alpha-spotted-on-xbox-live/</ref>, concluding during May, 2008. The test was open only to several thousand Microsoft employees, including [[Bungie Studios]], in order to locate any bugs or glitches, and to test its performance over Xbox Live. It consisted of a brief "tutorial" and multi-player, and was "''limited to a specific set of units.''" It is unknown how long the Alpha test was conducted, or when it began. The Alpha testing is now complete, as stated in the May Monthly update. <ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwywugjy3BY&feature=related</ref>
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| During the Alpha test, anti-air units were glitching so that their effectiveness was lessened, and [[Scorpion tanks]] and aircraft were extremely powerful. Aircraft strength was lessened to prevent players from sending in air-strikes against the enemy [[Command Center]] and crippling them too easily, ruining many a protocol player's chances of victory.<ref>http://www.halowars.com/news/articles/archive/2008/04/28/Halo-Wars-Monthly-Update-4.28.08.aspx</ref> This actually isn't an element of the game, but in fact a "balance issue".
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| ==Ambient Life==
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| [[Image:ThornBeastHW.png|thumb|right|180px|[[Thorn Beast]] seen in the middle of a battle.]]
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| Although only in the conceptual stages at this point, ambient life forms will be encountered in the gameplay. They may be found on the battlefield, and might react to the actions of the player's forces (such as firing a weapon, flying around or near them, etc.).<ref>[http://www.halowars.com/default.aspx ''Halo Wars'' Update; 2008-02-07, Ambient Life].</ref> Examples include the [[Space Owl]], the [[Harvest Whale]], the [[Arctic Beast]], [[Arctic Ice Hound|Ice Hound]] and some sort of [[eel-snake creature]] that has yet to be named. The ambient life forms will be on the Multi-player Maps and they will be interactive. However, in a recent interview, some [[Thorn Beast]] were observed. The [[Thorn Beasts]] seen in the game, merely run away from units, not battles; if there is a bombing next to it, it will not flinch. However, since the game is still in development, this lack of a reaction may be changed in the near future for a more realistic gaming experience.
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| == Multi-player ==
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| [[Image:1209090473 Screenshots 1280 003.jpg|thumb|200px|right|A possible multiplayer map showing [[Covenant]] as playable characters.]]
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| Just like ''[[Halo 2]]'' & ''[[Halo 3]]'', ''Halo Wars'' will have the strong characteristic of online gaming. ''Halo Wars''' live gaming characteristics include Direct voice communication & Online leader boards. There's no specific information regarding to the player ranking. As of now, multi-player is said to be up to 6 players at a time in a match. Two player online Co-op for the campaign story will also be in the game.<ref>http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/2008/04/18/halo-wars-alpha-spotted-on-xbox-live/</ref><ref>http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=874562</ref>
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| It has also been stated that online games will be rather quick, estimated at around 20 minutes per game.
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| ===Multiplayer Maps===
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| *[[Sway (Level)|Sway]] <ref> http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/2008/04/18/halo-wars-alpha-spotted-on-xbox-live/ </ref>
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| *[[Beasley Plateau (Map)|Beasley Plateau]] - a multiplayer map recently unveiled, set on a dense jungle plateau.<ref>http://www.gametrailers.com/player/40807.html</ref>
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| *[[Chasm (Map)|Chasm]] - a multiplayer map recently unveiled, set on a frozen region of Harvest.<ref>http://www.gametrailers.com/player/40805.html</ref>
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| *Each multiplayer map apparently takes place on a different "world", each with its own musical theme and playlist.<ref>http://www.halowars.com/news/articles/archive/2008/04/28/Halo-Wars-Monthly-Update-4.28.08.aspx</ref>
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| *The Halo Rings won't be in the story, but may be included in future maps for multiplayer.<ref name = "Imagine"/>
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| ==Trailers==
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| ===E3 2008 Trailer===
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| [[Video:Halo_wars_e3_2008_hd-1216233612-954|right|300px]]
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| [[Image:1216110637_Render_infantry_1920.jpg|thumb|200px|left|A screenshot from the trailer.]]
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| [[Image:Halo Wars unlucky marine.JPG|thumb|200px|left|A [[Marine]] about to be killed by a [[Covenant]] [[Elite]].]]
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| {{main|Five Long Years Cinematic}}
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| Five Long Years is a ''Halo Wars'' cinematic preview released on the July 14th of 2008 depicting the five year long struggle to reclaim Harvest from the Covenant. The trailer can be downloaded from the ''Halo Wars'' official website or [http://download.microsoft.com/download/2/9/5/29513e72-9c85-43e2-968b-bd94a7b694e3/Halo_Wars_ratedNYR_360p30_ST_1500kbps.wmv here.]{{clear}}
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| ===Field Trip To Harvest===
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| [[Video:Halo Wars - Field Trip to Harvest Trailer (HD)-1223691832-483|right|300px]]
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| [[Image:Arbiter_&_Zealot.JPG|thumb|200px|left|A [[Zealot]] [[Field Master]] taking orders from an [[Arbiter_(Halo_Wars_Character)|Arbiter]] on [[Harvest]].]]
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| ''Field Trip To Harvest'' is a cinematic preview that was released to the public on October 3rd, 2008 showing the UNSC's retaking of the planet Harvest and the Covenant's finding of a Forerunner structure. Also, in the conversation between a Zealot and the Arbiter, there is mention of "the Infections". This could be an introduction to the [[Flood]] in ''Halo Wars'', or just a name for the Humans on Harvest.{{clear}}
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| ==Cut Content==
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| Several units, the UNSC [[Cougar]], [[Covenant Air Artillery]], the [[Rhino]],and [[Sparrowhawk]] were under development early in the game. The developers later announced that they had been cut, as they had decided to focus on more recognizable ''Halo'' units. However, recent screenshots show that the Rhino and Sparrowhawk have returned, as well as a possible replacement of the Cougar.
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| ===Early Plot===
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| [[Image: Mining.jpg|thumb|The asteroid that never was...]]Originally the storyline was supposed to feature a [[Covenant]] mining asteroid that was located at a [[Forerunner]] ore refining mechanism, this concept tries to show the scale of the large Forerunner machinery in place, machines that are still operational (although now controlled by the Covenant). In the end the mining aspect of the story was removed from the game.<ref>[http://www.halowars.com/default.aspx ''Halo Wars'' Update: On an Asteroid Far, far away...]</ref>
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| ==Trivia==
| |
| *On April 1st, 2008, an "interview" with Graeme Devine<ref>http://halowars.heavengames.com/cgi-bin/forums/display.cgi?action=st&fn=11&tn=75</ref> revealed Forerunner would be a playable faction, including a "Rampancy" in the AI and the ability to build a Halo and fire it if the player decided to give up. Although some people took it for truth, it was easily shown to be an April Fools joke due to the article's source which linked to the Wikipedia article for the first of April and Ensemble's own remarks about the articles.
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| *According to the E3 demo video, soldiers can shoot the [[Grunt]]'s [[methane tank]]s and the Grunt will explode, much like in ''Halo 3''.
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| *It is possible to run over enemies with the [[Warthog]], and it's likely the [[Scarab]] can step on other vehicles.<ref>http://softrockhallelujah.blogspot.com/2008/01/january-third-things.html </ref>
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| *While there will be an economy mechanic, including one resource, for the game, it may play less of a role in the [[Campaign]] missions.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/fanclub/107773/group/news.aspx?type=news&cid=308883 Interview by a Bungie Group]</ref>
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| *There will be a unit limit.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/fanclub/107773/group/news.aspx?type=news&cid=308883 Interview by a Bungie Group]</ref>
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| *The Doritos snack food held a sweepstakes where the winner got a voice role in the game.<ref>Official Xbox Magazine, Issue 74, page 32</ref>
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| *Each individual soldier will have his own separate reaction to background stimulation in an attempt by Ensemble to add a "human element" to the game.<ref>Xbox World 360 Issue 63 p7</ref>
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| *''Halo Wars'' didn't start as a ''Halo'' game at all. Six months were spent developing a control scheme for a viable RTS for the Xbox 360, which was later pitched to Microsoft, asking to use the ''Halo'' IP, to which Microsoft agreed.<ref>Xbox 360: Australia's ''100% Game Magazine'' Issue 28 p28/29</ref>
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| *It appears that "parking lots" of UNSC vehicles were set to be featured. This looks set to be dropped from the final version.<ref>''Xbox World 360'' Issue 63 p8</ref>
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| *Orders can be given for troops to take cover and/or take shelter in buildings.<ref>''Xbox World 360'' Issue 63 p7</ref>
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| *It is likely that Easter Eggs will be featured in a manner similar to the previous three ''Halo'' games.<ref>[http://forums.halo.fr/viewtopic.php?p=315181 Interview-Graeme Divine].</ref>
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| *During the introductory level in the E3 demonstration video, [[UNSC]] [[Marines]] can be seen doing push-ups behind the barracks, being drilled by a Drill Instructor.
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| *The ''Halo Wars Alpha'' has begun testing on Xbox LIVE among internal testers on the map [[Sway (Level)|Sway]]. <ref> http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/2008/04/18/halo-wars-alpha-spotted-on-xbox-live/ </ref>
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| *[[Bungie]] staff played in the Alpha Testing.
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| *If you look closely at the helmets on the box art, they seem to resemble Mark V helmets, rather than older renders of the Mark IV helmet. This is an in-game redesign of the armor system to be more reminiscent of the Mark V armor, rather than the Mark VI.
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| *The [[D77-TC Pelican]] is the model used in ''Halo Wars'', not the [[D77H-TCI Pelican|D77H-TCI]] which is only introduced during ''[[Halo 3]]''.
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| *At this point in time, there are over 5,000 sound files for sound and voice in the game. Three more voice-over sessions set to be held over the summer will raise this number significantly.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/fanclub/107773/group/news.aspx?type=news&cid=351133 Interview with Sonic Duo Part 1]. ''Halo Wars RTS''. Accessed on 2008-05-09</ref>
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| *A cinematic called ''[[Five Long Years Cinematic|Five Long Years]]'' was released on 7/14/2008 and contains the first depiction of the ''Halo Wars'' Campaign.
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| *Many new [[UNSC]] units were seen on G4's hands-on coverage of ''Halo Wars'' on July 14th.<ref>http://e3.g4tv.com/e32008/videos/26921/Hands_On_Halo_Wars.html</ref>
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| *In the E3 08: [[Five Long Years Cinematic|Five Long Years]] video the Pelicans seen airlifting [[Marines]] have the Legendary symbol on their noses.
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| *E3 '08 ''Halo Wars'' gameplay has proven the existence of [[Honor Guard Elite]]s in ''Halo Wars''.<ref>http://e3.g4tv.com/e32008/videos/26921/Hands_On_Halo_Wars.html</ref>
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| *An image of E3 gameplay has proven that Brutes will be playable units in ''Halo Wars''. [http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v164/bastable/brutes.jpg]
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| *The [[UNSC]] forces can order supplies for the ship ''[[Spirit of Fire]]'' while Covenant forces will get supplies from [[Gravity Lifts]].
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| *An article released by ShackNews states that Halo Wars is Ensemble's last game, and that they are laying off any personnel not essential to the game's completion.<ref>http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/54648</ref>
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| *Though the [[Flood]] have been confirmed to be in the game, they will not be a playable faction, unlike the [[UNSC]] and Covenant.<ref>http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41104.html</ref>
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| *An unknown [[Unnamed Arbiter (Halo Wars)|Arbiter]] will appear in the campaign, as seen in a recent trailer.
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| *According to [[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx|Ghosts of Onyx]] the [[Hunter]] race was first seen by humans in 2537 during [[Operation: PROMETHEUS]], but Halo Wars takes place in [[2531]], about 6 years earlier.
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| *The ''Five Long Years'' trailer was released on 7/14, another possible [[7]] reference.
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| *On December 5,2008, Gametrailers.com released new footage for the Halo Wars campaign. In addition, they stated that [[The Flood]] will not be a playable team in the game. They also said stated that one of the Halo Wars achievements may involve killing 45 [[Hunters]] in the campaign. Bungie also stated that on the missions will involve traveling to a [[Forerunner]] planet to rescue two [[UNSC]] scientists from [[Covenant]] forces with starting units that consist of several squads of [[marines]] and two [[Grizzly]] tanks.
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| ==Gallery==
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| <gallery>
| |
| Image:Halo Wars - Collectors Edition (Box Art).png|The cover for the [[Halo Wars: Limited Edition|limited edition of Halo Wars]].
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| Image:HarvestT-1-.jpg|An early cutscene from ''Halo Wars''.
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| Image:GruntEncounterT-1-.jpg|[[Grunt]]s encountered in the game.
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| Image:HaloWarsCanyon.jpg|Covenant and UNSC forces in-game.
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| Image:Emag_halowarsqa_4_d96d0-1-.jpg|Trouble coming down the hill. Notice the Scarab on the ridge.
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| Image:HaloWarsTanks.jpg|Scorpions and Warthogs vs Wraiths and Ghosts.
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| Image:HaloWarsGameplay2.jpg|A titanic clash between dozens of ground and air units (the battle seems to be taking place on a Halo installation).
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| Image:concept08_11_1280.jpg|Concept Art for [[Forerunner]] structures.
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| Image:concept08_10_1280.jpg|More concept art of [[Forerunner]] structures.
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| Image:1207654255 Concept08 12 1280.jpg|More concept art of [[Forerunner]] structures.
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| Image:1206800790 Halowars.jpg|An [[Elite]] holding a dead Marine.
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| Image:1209877878 1154 0002.jpg|[[Elites]] up close.
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| Image:Spartan.JPG|[[ MJOLNIR Mark IV]] armour.
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| Image:HWscreen.jpeg|Multiplayer Screenshot, revealing that Scarabs will be usable in multi-player.
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| Image:Concept08_1_1024.jpg|Concept art of UNSC civilians on an unknown colony world.
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| Image:Gameprohalowars.jpg|Gamepro's Image for ''Halo Wars'', note the terrain.
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| Image:Hwfuelrod.jpg|[[Elite]] firing a [[Fuel Rod Gun]].
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| Image:Hwscarab.jpg|A [[Scarab]] Firing its main weapon.
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| Image:2zdua7o.jpg|A battle between [[UNSC]] and [[Covenant]] forces, for a [[Forerunner]] structure.
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| Image:1213852807_192808-5-2.jpg|A large Covenant Army can be seen, composed of many species and vehicles.
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| Image:Burningcritters.jpg|A group of Flamethrower-equipped Marines leaving an [[Elephant]].
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| Image:Grizzler.jpg|A destroyed [[Grizzly]].
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| Image:Rhinox.jpg|A [[Rhino]] in multi-player.
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| Image:Spiritwhore.jpg|A Covenant [[Spirit]] flying away from battle.
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| Image:Wolveriney.jpg|A trio of defending Wolverines.
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| Image:Hornet war.jpg|A battle against a [[Scarab.]]
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| Image:CovenantArmyHW.jpg|A large Covenant force.
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| Image:UNSC CovieBattle.jpg|A small battle between the [[UNSC]] and Covenant forces.
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| Image:Screenshot 6 preview.jpg|Concept art of a battle to claim a Forerunner structure.
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| Image:196539.jpg|Kig-Yar, as they appear in Halo Wars.
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| </gallery>
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| {{Clear}}
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| == Links ==
| |
| === Internal ===
| |
| | |
| *[[Circle Menu]]
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| *''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''
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| *[[Halo Wars Announcement Trailer|''Halo Wars'' Announcement Trailer]]
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| *[[Halo Wars: Limited Edition]]
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| === External ===
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| | |
| *[http://www.halowars.com/ Official website]
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| *[http://www.bungie.net/News/TopStory.aspx?link=bungieatx06 ''Halo Wars'' announcement]
| |
| *[http://www.halowarsaddict.com ''Halo Wars'' Fansite]
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| *[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=djOt3CDRq9A ''Halo Wars'' E3 Trailer]
| |
| *[http://forums.halowars.com/forums/thread/91352.aspx Extended ''Halo Wars'' E3 montage]
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| *[http://www.halowars.heavengames.com Heavengames.com]
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| *[http://www.gamepro.com/microsoft/xbox360/37816/info.shtml ''Halo Wars'' Profile Page]
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| *[http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/901/901496p1.html "Halo Wars" GC 2008: Halo Wars Hands-on]
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| ==Sources==
| |
| <references/>
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| {{Halo Games}}
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| [[Category:Games]]
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| [[es:Halo Wars]]
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| [[fr:Guerres de Halo]]
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