Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about Halo.
What is the Halo franchise?
Halo is a multimedia science fiction series originally created by Bungie that chronicles humanity's struggle for survival in the 26th century against alien coalitions and ancient threats, centered around the exploits of a legendary super-soldier.
Where should a newcomer begin experiencing the story?
Newcomers are recommended to start with Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary or install the Master Chief Collection, which provides access to the essential narrative games in a chronological order that establishes the core plot and characters.
Who is the protagonist of the series?
The main character is Master Chief Petty Officer John-117, a genetically augmented Spartan-II super-soldier who serves as the UNSC's most effective weapon against existential dangers facing humanity.
What are the primary antagonists in the Halo universe?
Humanity contends with the Covenant, a religious alliance of alien species determined to activate Forerunner artifacts, and the Flood, a parasitic infection form that consumes sentient biomass to propagate itself across the galaxy.
What is the setting of the Halo narrative?
The story takes place in the Milky Way galaxy during the 26th century, focusing on the Human-Covenant war and the subsequent conflicts over mysterious ringworlds constructed by an extinct precursor race known as the Forerunners.
What are the Halo rings and why do they matter?
The Halos are colossal ring-shaped superweapons built by the Forerunners to sterilize the galaxy of all sentient life, serving as a desperate measure to starve the Flood parasite rather than destroy it directly.
Who is Cortana and what is her role?
Cortana is an artificial intelligence construct who serves as Master Chief's tactical companion and confidante, providing critical assistance during missions while navigating the limitations of her own digital lifespan.
Does the lore extend beyond the video games?
Yes, the franchise features a vast expanded canon comprising novels, comic books, and animated series that are officially curated to flesh out the timeline, character backstories, and political dynamics of the universe.
What is a defining moment in the Halo storyline?
The Great Schism marks a critical turning point when the Covenant fractures into civil war after discovering humanity is not heretical to their faith, causing a power vacuum that allows the Flood to overrun key installations.
Who currently develops and manages the Halo IP?
Stewardship of the franchise transferred from Bungie to 343 Industries in 2010, and this studio now oversees all new game development, lore expansion, and multimedia production for the series.