The Mystery of the Halo Installation 07 in Halo 5: Guardians
Halo 5: Guardians ends on a cliffhanger with a glimpse of what could be Halo installation 07 or Zeta Halo. This article delves into the significance of this installation, its history, and theories surrounding it based on the game's lore and recent developments.
Significance of Installation 07
In Halo 5: Guardians, the Halo installation shown at the conclusion of the game is identified as Installation 07, also known as the Halo Ring. This is the first new Halo ring introduced since the original trilogy, which immediately increases its significance in the larger Halo narrative. The installation plays a pivotal role not only in the immediate storyline but also in wider Halo lore involving the Forerunners and the Banished.
The events that unfold post-Halo 5 set the stage for another major story in Halo Infinite, where this installation becomes central to the plot. Understanding the backstory of Installation 07 can help us make sense of its importance in the larger Halo universe.
Theories Surrounding the Zeta Halo
The E3 2022 trailer for Halo Infinite has sparked numerous theories about the identity of the Halo installation. Here are some key points to consider:
Historical Context: Zeta Halo was originally part of the original array of 13 rings, at least twice as large as the rings we know. It was salvaged and reduced in size to fit into the array. Flood Outbreak: Zeta Halo has experienced a significant Flood outbreak on its surface. Some Flood managed to survive by entering Forerunner stasis. Repair and Potential for Gravemind: While the Flood subsided, it raises the question of whether the Gravemind could have survived and repaired some stasis machines to allow Flood infestation.@HiddenXperia has provided a detailed breakdown of the E3 2022 trailer, suggesting that the Halo installation may indeed be Installation 07. This possibility opens up new avenues for story development and character exploration.
Connections with Halo 3 and Halo Wars 2
The ending of Halo 3 provides some context. Following the destruction of Installation-04, the Ark started building a replacement Halo. However, with High Charity still containing Flood remnants post-destruction, the Ark's resources were likely focused on containing the threat.
Halo Wars 2, set six years later, shows progress in Halo construction. Professor Anders is seen taking a backup Halo from the Ark's Central Forge. She encounters Cortana during this mission, indicating that the Ark had already begun efforts to build a replacement Halo.
Given these events, it can be hypothesized that Installation 07 is actually Installation-04-C or Installation-09. This aligns with the idea that the Halo installation seen in Halo 5: Guardians is the Halo begun during this time.
Conclusion
The identity of the Halo installation in Halo 5: Guardians is a source of ongoing speculation within the Halo community. From the history of Zeta Halo to its potential role in future stories, the significance of this installation cannot be overstated.