What Comes After Halo 5: Guardians? Exploring the Sequel and the Halo Universe
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The direct sequel to Halo 5: Guardians is Halo Infinite. Released in 2021, it continues the overarching narrative of the Halo universe, picking up (albeit with some narrative shifts) after the events of both Halo 5: Guardians and Halo Wars 2. Halo Infinite sees players once again stepping into the boots of Master Chief, facing off against the formidable Banished on the shattered remains of Zeta Halo. The game significantly evolves the Halo formula, introducing a semi-open world environment and grappling hook mechanics, while also addressing some of the criticisms levied against its predecessor.
The Narrative Shift: What Happened Between Halo 5 and Infinite?
While Halo Infinite is the direct sequel, it’s impossible to ignore the narrative pivots made between the two games. Halo 5 concluded with Cortana seizing control of the galaxy, leading the Created in a bid for galactic domination. However, Halo Infinite opens with Cortana’s apparent demise and the rise of the Banished as the primary antagonist.
This change in direction was a conscious decision by 343 Industries. Many felt that the direction Halo 5 took with Cortana’s story and the introduction of Fireteam Osiris didn’t resonate with the Halo fanbase. Halo Infinite was intended to be a “spiritual reboot,” returning to the classic themes of hope, heroism, and the iconic dynamic between Master Chief and Cortana (albeit a new version of her, “The Weapon”). This led to a storyline that, while chronologically following Halo 5, essentially reset the galactic power structure and refocused on Master Chief’s personal journey.
Diving Deeper: Frequently Asked Questions About Halo and its Sequels
1. What exactly is the Banished, and why are they important in Halo Infinite?
The Banished are a splinter faction of the former Covenant, comprised primarily of Brutes (Jiralhanae) and led by the powerful warlord Atriox. Unlike the Covenant, the Banished prioritize strength and conquest over religious zealotry. They represent a significant threat in Halo Infinite as they have already decimated a large portion of UNSC forces on Zeta Halo. The Banished embodies a more brutal and pragmatic form of warfare than the Covenant, presenting Master Chief with a new and dangerous challenge. They are a terrifying force that poses a real threat.
2. Does Halo Infinite ignore the events of Halo 5: Guardians entirely?
While Halo Infinite makes significant narrative adjustments, it doesn’t entirely disregard Halo 5. The game acknowledges Cortana’s actions and the threat posed by the Created. However, it reframes these events and provides a different resolution to Cortana’s storyline. Some elements of the Created are mentioned, but they are not the main focus of the game.
3. How does Halo Wars 2 fit into the timeline after Halo 5?
Halo Wars 2 takes place in 2559, shortly after the events of Halo 5: Guardians. It introduces the Banished as a significant force and provides context for their presence in Halo Infinite. While the events of Halo Wars 2 aren’t directly referenced in Halo Infinite’s main campaign, they contribute to the overall lore and establish the Banished as a formidable threat. Players should check out the lore outside of the games for greater details of the plot.
4. What is the significance of Zeta Halo in Halo Infinite’s story?
Zeta Halo, also known as Installation 07, is a Halo ring of immense significance within the Halo universe. It’s one of the original Halo rings and holds secrets related to the Forerunners and the Flood. In Halo Infinite, Zeta Halo has been heavily damaged and fragmented, providing a unique open-world environment for players to explore. The ring’s destruction is closely tied to the plot.
5. Who is “The Weapon” in Halo Infinite, and what is her connection to Cortana?
“The Weapon” is an artificial intelligence (AI) construct created by the UNSC to mimic Cortana and ultimately trap her. She played a crucial role in containing Cortana on Zeta Halo before the events of Halo Infinite. She is similar, but also different. She is a vital ally to Master Chief throughout the game, and her connection to Cortana forms a central theme of the narrative.
6. What happened to Fireteam Osiris after Halo 5: Guardians?
The fate of Fireteam Osiris, led by Spartan Locke, is largely unresolved by the time Halo Infinite comes around. While their mission was crucial in Halo 5, their whereabouts and current activities are not explicitly stated in the narrative. The game implies that their mission has ended.
7. Is the Arbiter in Halo Infinite?
The Arbiter, a fan-favorite Elite character, does not make a direct appearance in Halo Infinite. However, an Easter egg within the game acknowledges his continued existence, suggesting that he is still active within the galaxy. The character is not confirmed to be dead.
8. What is Master Chief’s age in Halo Infinite?
By the time of Halo Infinite in 2560, Master Chief (John-117) is biologically 49 years old. However, due to his time spent in cryo-sleep during long space voyages, his physical age is likely less.
9. What is the legendary ending for Halo 5 about?
The Legendary ending of Halo 5: Guardians reveals an unknown Halo installation. Many speculate that this is a reference to Zeta Halo, the setting of Halo Infinite, suggesting a direct connection between the two games.
10. Why did Bungie leave Halo?
Bungie, the original creators of the Halo franchise, left the series after Halo: Reach (2010) to pursue other projects. They wanted to move onto greater ambitions. This was their primary reasoning for departing from Halo.
11. What is the best Halo game?
Determining the “best” Halo game is subjective and depends on personal preferences. However, Halo: Combat Evolved, Halo 2, and Halo 3 are consistently ranked among the top games in the series, praised for their innovative gameplay, compelling stories, and impactful multiplayer experiences. According to Metacritic, Halo: Combat Evolved is often at the top.
12. Is the Flood in Halo Infinite?
While the Flood is a significant threat in the Halo universe, they do not appear in Halo Infinite’s main campaign. However, their absence doesn’t necessarily mean they are gone forever. The lore is unclear regarding the potential for Flood to appear again.
13. What is the Reclaimer Saga?
The Reclaimer Saga is a storyline that encompasses Halo 4, Halo 5: Guardians, and Halo Infinite. It focuses on Master Chief’s relationship with Cortana, the mysteries of the Forerunners, and the future of humanity in the galaxy.
14. Is Halo Infinite a good starting point for new players?
While having some familiarity with the Halo universe enhances the experience, Halo Infinite is generally considered accessible to new players. The game’s narrative is relatively self-contained, and it provides enough context for players to understand the key characters and events. New players should still be able to enjoy the game.
15. Where can I learn more about the Halo universe and the impact of video games on learning?
For further exploration of the Halo universe, including its extensive lore and the connections between different games and media, various online resources, fan communities, and official Halo channels are available. If you’re interested in the broader intersection of video games and education, be sure to visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ to learn more about the research and educational initiatives in that field. This academic group does great work.
In conclusion, Halo Infinite is the sequel to Halo 5: Guardians, continuing the saga of Master Chief and the ongoing conflict in the Halo universe. While it makes some significant narrative shifts, it ultimately provides a fresh and engaging experience for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.