Beyond the Game: 'Halo 5: Guardians' Expanded Universe
Exploring the Expansive Universe of Halo 5 Guardians
The Halo franchise has been captivating gamers for over two decades with its intense gameplay, intricate storyline, and immersive world. And with the release of Halo 5: Guardians in 2015, fans were given even more to sink their teeth into with the introduction of the Expanded Universe. This new addition to the Halo lore has opened up a whole new level of depth and excitement for players to explore. So let's strap on our MJOLNIR armor and dive into the vast universe of Halo 5 Guardians!
The Expanded Universe: What is it?
The Expanded Universe, also known as the Extended Universe or EU, refers to any media beyond the video games that adds to the overall Halo story. This includes novels, comics, animated series, and more recently, live-action web series. These new forms of media provide a deeper understanding of the Halo universe, filling in gaps in the story and introducing new characters and plot points.
One of the most popular additions to the Expanded Universe is the Halo novels, which have been released since the first game in 2001. These books have become a staple for die-hard fans, offering a more in-depth look at the events and characters in the Halo universe. They also gave readers a chance to see the story from different perspectives, such as the Covenant or the Spartans, providing a well-rounded view of the conflict.
Expanding the Story of Halo 5
Halo 5: Guardians takes place eight months after the end of Halo 4, and the Expanded Universe plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between the two games. The first piece of media released was the digital comic series Halo: Escalation, which details the efforts of the United Nations Space Command (UNSC) and the Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) to stop a Forerunner weapon from falling into the wrong hands.
But the Expanded Universe doesn't just fill in the gaps; it also introduces new characters and expands on existing ones. One notable example is Spartan Jameson Locke, who plays a prominent role in Halo 5. Fans first got to know him in the live-action series Halo: Nightfall, which was released as a companion piece to the game. This allowed players to become familiar with Locke's story and motivations, making his character even more nuanced and engaging in the game.
Discovering New Worlds and Lore
Aside from adding depth to the characters and plot, the Expanded Universe also takes players to new locations in the Halo universe. This includes the planet Meridian, featured in both Halo: Nightfall and Halo 5, where players get to explore and learn more about this new world and its inhabitants.
Fans of the Halo universe also get to dive deeper into its rich lore through the Expanded Universe. The novels and comics provide a wealth of information about the Forerunners, the Flood, and the ancient war that led to the creation of the Halo rings. And with each new addition to the Expanded Universe, fans get to discover more secrets and untold stories of this vast and complex world.
Final Thoughts
The Expanded Universe has truly expanded the world of Halo, giving players a chance to delve deeper into its lore and get to know their favorite characters on a whole new level. And with more releases still to come, the Halo universe is constantly growing and evolving, providing endless opportunities for fans to explore and discover new aspects of this beloved franchise. So whether you're a seasoned veteran or a new recruit, there's always something new to explore in the expansive universe of Halo 5 Guardians.
Photos by Halo 5: Guardians and Halo: Nightfall.