Making Halo Wars 2

Thank you so much for leaping into the world of Halo Wars!

The question I get asked the most is: why do a Halo Wars sequel now? The simple answer is: the fans. At 343 Industries, we regularly poll our audience, and—depending on the timing—a Halo Wars sequel has been either the number one or number two most-requested game from Halo fans. We’re delighted to finally make this happen.

The team’s goal with this game was, first and foremost, to create an amazing RTS title. We wanted to construct an explosive, fast-paced experience that really made you feel like you were controlling vast Halo armies with overwhelming power. RTS is such an amazing genre, but we realized it can also be intimidating for some people, so we tried to create a mode that would let us onboard new players, as well as offer an experience that veteran players could enjoy. Finally, we wanted to do something original in the genre. The result of our ambition and hard work is Blitz, an entirely new way to play RTS.

One of the things I love about Halo is the great story and characters, and with Halo Wars 2, we took some huge bets on both. I couldn’t be happier with the response to Atriox and Isabel. In particular, I think Atriox is one of the most compelling villains the franchise has ever seen, and I can’t wait for you to get to know him, and the Banished, better! And their stories don’t end in Halo Wars 2. From this launching point, both our heroes and our villains will undertake adventures that will shape the future of the wider Halo Universe.

But Halo is also about explosions! This guide will enable you to formulate strategies to achieve victory on the Ark by giving you in-depth information on every building, weapon, vehicle, and more in Halo Wars 2. From the fast-moving Jackrabbit to the deadly Marauder, we’ve introduced an arsenal of new war engines and powerful heroes to Halo that you’ll learn to love and fear. I hope that deeper understanding of their advantages, disadvantages, and special quirks will translate to a greater sense of enjoyment of the game.

It’s been an amazing ride making Halo Wars 2! I hope you have an amazing time, and that all your battles are victorious. And remember:

“If you find yourself in a fair fight, you didn’t plan your mission properly.” —David Hackworth

Dan Ayoub

Studio Head at 343 Industries