WINTER

CONTINGENCY

A Theme for the Genesys Roleplaying Game

Set in the HALO Universe
(Beta Playtest v. 0.1.0)
THEME DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT:
James P. Taber

EDITING:
James P. Taber

THEME GRAPHIC DESIGN:

Annalise Taber

NARRATIVE DICE SYSTEM ORIGINAL DESIGN:

Jay Little

PUBLISHER:
James P. Taber

PLAYTESTERS:
Douglas Calabrese, Jessica Calabrese, Lindsey Kyte,
Rachel Sturm, Sean Taber

SPECIAL 7HANKS:
Coureton Dalton, Anthony Laffan, Halopedia

If you would like to provide feedback on this game,

▪ reach out on Twitter (@TaberiusRex)
▪ send an email to feedback@jamestaber.com
▪ or fill out a Google Form here:
https://forms.gle/CVTUZ4gaUNvCmfa88

HALO is © and ™ Microsoft and 343 Industries, 2022.

All rights reserved.

This is an unofficial role-playing game made by fans.

You are free to modify and distribute this rulebook as
you see fit, provided this page, including this warning,
remains unaltered.
Table of Contents

SECTION 00. INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................7

Welcome to the HALO Universe....................................................................................................................................... 7

Roleplaying in the Covenant War..................................................................................................................................... 7
Looking for more?.............................................................................................................................................................. 8
Storytelling Tropes in the HALO Universe...................................................................................................................... 8
A Note About Canon........................................................................................................................................................... 10

SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION..........................................................................................................11

The Story So Far................................................................................................................................................................. 11

Backgrounds....................................................................................................................................................................... 11
Archetypes........................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Careers................................................................................................................................................................................. 18
New Skills............................................................................................................................................................................ 22
New Talents......................................................................................................................................................................... 26

SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES.......................................................................................................32

Requisition (REQ) System................................................................................................................................................. 32

New Item Qualities............................................................................................................................................................. 35
Weapons.............................................................................................................................................................................. 36
Armor................................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Gear...................................................................................................................................................................................... 43
Code Packages.................................................................................................................................................................... 47
Attachments........................................................................................................................................................................ 51
Vehicles & Starships.......................................................................................................................................................... 56

SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR....................................................................................................................76

Per Mare, Per Terras, Per Constellatum......................................................................................................................... 76

Human Organizations........................................................................................................................................................ 79
Networks in the HALO Universe....................................................................................................................................... 90

SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES........................................................................................................................94

The Covenant...................................................................................................................................................................... 94
Humanity.............................................................................................................................................................................. 111

CHARACTER SHEETS..................................................................................................................................123

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SECTION 00. INTRODUCTION

WINTER CONTINGENCY refers to clear evidence that Covenant Forces

know the location of, or are present at, a UNSC colony. Events
which may be classified as WINTER CONTINGENCY include:

▪ ntercepted Covenant communications that refer to a UNSC

I
colony by name.

▪ Discovery of hard physical evidence of Covenant activity:



▫ Abandoned or discarded materiel.



▫ esidue and/or damage consistent with Directed Energy

R
Weapon usage.

▪ etection of multiple in-system Slipstream Space

D
rupture events.

▪ Engaged in combat by Covenant forces.



This term is a report that has the highest precedence in the

OPREP-Γ reporting structure. All other terms such as GOOSE CHASE,
SNAKE PIT, et al, while important, should be considered secondary
to this report.

Ref. UNSC DF Instruction EM-277, 03/10/2526

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 SECTION 00. INTRODUCTION

A marker flashed in the corner of Olivia’s vision, alerting her to an incoming transmission.
She glanced at it, then keyed the COM system built into her helmet.
“Sigma-One-Six, what do you see?”
“I’ve got eyes on four Brutes and around a dozen Grunts.” Harper’s voice crackled from
the signal jamming, source unknown. “Looks like a search pattern. They’re only about a dozen
meters out from our position.”
Olivia frowned. She’d sent Harper and Dobade ahead to scout the area where they
expected the Covenant was exploring. Grunts were stubby little things, dangerous in packs but
easy pickings when separated. Brutes, on the other hand, were like a cross between a gorilla
and a rhino: all muscle, no brain, completely unstoppable.
“Can you feed me a visual?”
“I need to move to a better position. Stand by.”
The line went quiet. Olivia focused her attention back to the jungle that spread out below
the ridge. In the early morning, steam drifted up from its heart, softening the harsh light from
the moon’s blue sun. Harper and Dobade were out there right now, trying to figure out what
the Covenant wanted with an otherwise unremarkable moon in the middle of nowhere. Their
main forces were engaged with the fleet in-system, around the only colony in this sector.
So why waste resources all the way out here?
She put the question out of her mind. Her squad’s job was to get the facts and send them
up the chain, not do the analysts’ job for them. Behind her, the rest of her team was ready
and waiting: Forza was on overwatch with her, while Kasun helped Al-Mufti stow her rockets.
There probably wouldn’t be any heavy armor nestled in the trees anyway, and for this mission,
she wanted to run quiet rather than loud.
Only one figure seemed to be doing nothing. It was in a crouch, still as a rock, though with
the angular plating and gold visor it looked more like a robot than a person. The Spartan had
been a last-minute addition to Olivia’s squad, which made her antsy—a recon mission like this
shouldn’t need the kind of firepower a Spartan could bring to the table. She’d heard stories of
them going hand-to-hand with Covenant tanks and coming out on top.
The Spartan didn’t have a name—hell, Olivia didn’t even think it was human—and there
was only a number stenciled on the armor’s left breast: 214. As her eyes lingered on it, the
helmet gave a slight twitch, as if its occupant was looking at her. A cold feeling settled in her
gut and she turned away, desperate for a distraction.
Her COM pinged, but it wasn’t Harper. A cool, male voice cut in: “Sergeant Jackson. We
have a problem in orbit.”

//

Laran received the sensor ping at the same time as the ops console, but events unfolded much
slower for an AI than they did for the human crew. He was able to analyze the signal, contact
the ground team, and call for the captain’s attention before the ensign on sensor duty even had
time to glance at the alert.
Captain Dunbar turned away from her XO and leveled her stare at the holo-tank. “What
do we have?”
Laran momentarily considered not manifesting himself before deciding that the captain
would probably respond better if he did. His avatar flicked into place above the pedestal, a
dark-skinned man wearing bronze plate and a crested helmet and wielding a spear.
“A Slipspace rupture in the upper atmosphere, ma’am. Looks like a CCS-class
battlecruiser, but not one of the ones that’s heading the assault on Reagan colony.”
He watched the concern deepen the lines on Dunbar’s face. A Covenant battlecruiser was
more than a match for a Halberd-class destroyer like the Spring Wind. If they had an escort,

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SECTION 00. INTRODUCTION

like the two frigates they had to leave behind in Reagan’s defense, they could maybe hold their
own in a straight fight. Alone, they were easy pickings for the battlecruiser’s energy projector.
“Have they spotted us?”
“Oh, without a doubt, ma’am.” Laran dipped his head, the crest falling low. “But right now,
their focus seems to be on the planet’s surface. They’re moving into geosynchronous orbit
above Sigma-One’s position.”
Dunbar cursed. “We can’t leave them to fend for themselves. ONI needs whatever intel
they can gather on what the Covenant wants with this moon. Scramble the Longswords
and ready a firing solution for our MAC gun. Maybe we can get a lucky shot off and cripple
them early.”
Laran nodded, dismissing his avatar before getting to work. He’d already sent the order
to the Spring Wind’s pilots to scramble; it would only be another thirty seconds before they
launched. He turned his focus to plotting a firing trajectory, working with both the weapons
officer and the helmsman to get the ship in position.
But he spared a few cycles to update Sergeant Jackson on the ground, as well as to let
SPARTAN-214 know the situation had escalated. There was no more time to wait.

//

“Thanks, Laran. We’ll keep our heads down.”

Olivia closed the connection with the Spring Wind and turned to her squad. Kasun and
Al-Mufti were looking at her expectantly, while Forza kept watch on the jungle with one ear
cocked in her direction.
“Listen up,” Olivia said. “Things are about to get hot upstairs. Laran and the captain are
going to do what they can to give us cover, but we’re looking at an entire battlecruiser’s worth
of reinforcements. It’s time to move.”
“Where to, Sarge?” asked Kasun.
“The mountains. We can set up a defensible position, find some running water and
start rationing. If the Covenant come looking for us, we can ambush them and fall back as
necessary, but the mission is survival.
Movement caught her eye. The Spartan was standing up, faster and quieter than it should
be, given its size and weight. The gold visor zeroed in on her.
“Sergeant.” Olivia was surprised to hear a woman’s voice coming from the Spartan, with
an oddly high pitch for someone seven feet tall and wearing half a short ton of powered armor.
“We need to get to your scouts’ position.”
It took a moment for Olivia to realize what it—she was talking about. In the corner of her
visor, Olivia noticed the video feed: Harper and Dobade had tracked the Covenant to a clearing.
In it, she could clearly see a structure rising out of the ground, all sloping angles and smooth,
almost silver grey in color.
And behind it, descending through the morning fog, a Covenant battlecruiser.
“That’s way too hot,” Olivia said, even as she thought about Harper and Dobade trapped
in an impossible position. Without reinforcements, they wouldn’t be able to clear out safely,
but going would mean endangering the rest of the squad. “We can’t take on a whole cruiser. It
would put our whole mission at risk.”
The Spartan unlimbered a shotgun from her back. “That structure is our mission,
Sergeant, and we’re not leaving until we have the intel we need. As for the cruiser,” she said,
sounding like she was smiling, “I could use the warm-up.”

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SECTION 00. INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the HALO Universe
The year is 2551. Humanity has been at war with a
hegemonic alien coalition known as the Covenant
for twenty-six years, and we are losing. The
Covenant’s objective is the complete destruction of
the human race, and with their advanced weapons
and starships, their victory is all but assured. The
only thing standing between mankind and extinction
are the relentless and determined soldiers of the
United Nations Space Command. From infantry
fighters on the ground to fleet commanders in space,
from incredibly complex artificial intelligences
to augmented supersoldiers, the UNSC is doing
everything it can to hold the Covenant back and keep
them from finding the ultimate prize: Earth.
In taking up arms to defend humanity from the
alien menace, understand that you are signing up
for a dangerous mission. The Covenant’s inexorable
advance has seen hundreds of colonies glassed from
orbit and billions dead. Meanwhile, humans are not
one big happy family: insurrectionists and rebels
fight against the UNSC’s authoritarian control, while
factions within the military vie for funding and glory.
As a soldier, you will be expected to meet whatever
challenge comes your way and follow orders. Failure
to do so might mean the extinction of humanity.
Whether you choose the role of a human
soldier, a Spartan hero, or an AI mastermind, you
are guaranteed to experience a thrilling adventure.
Besides the ongoing war, the remnants of a long dead
alien race litter the galaxy, the enigmatic ruins a point
of interest for both the Covenant and the UNSC’s
Office of Naval Intelligence. And in the darkest
corners of the galaxy, an ancient evil long thought to
be eradicated stirs, pangs of hunger and restlessness
drawing it out while the bloodshed continues.
Good luck, soldier. You’re going to need it.
Roleplaying in the Covenant War
WINTER CONTINGENCY is a fan-made theme for
Fantasy Flight Games’ Genesys RPG. It is focused
on the human side of the Covenant War, a period
lasting from 2525 to 2553. During this time, humanity
struggles against the inexorable might of the
Covenant, fighting a desperate battle for survival.
Opportunities for heroism abound, though the situation
is grim and the enemy seemingly unstoppable.
To play, you will need this PDF, a copy of the
Genesys Core Rulebook (available online and at your
local game store), some Genesys Roleplaying Dice
(available online, at your local game store, or as a
free app for iOS and Android), and some friends. We
also recommend picking up the Android: Shadow
of the Beanstalk sourcebook for the Genesys RPG—
besides being a great cyberpunk setting, it contains
network encounter rules on page 125 that work well
for AIs in this setting, as well as talents and gear we
reference elsewhere in this theme.
One player will take on the role of the Game
Master (GM), narrating the story, controlling the Non-
Player Characters (NPCs), and calling for skill checks
from the other players as needed. The other players
will each create a Player Character (PC) who they will
control throughout play. Together, you will engage in
cooperative, collaborative storytelling set in the HALO
universe, taking place across an entire galaxy.
This theme contains everything you need to set
adventures during the Covenant War. What follows is
a quick overview of each section and how you might
find them useful.
SECTION 01: CHARACTER CREATION
Begin here when creating PCs before the start of the
adventure. This section contains guidance on creating
characters who live in the HALO universe during the
time of the Human-Covenant War, including species
profiles for AIs and Spartans and a wide variety of
careers suitable for the battlefield.
After that, you will find a comprehensive
list of the skills in use for this setting, including
descriptions of new knowledge and technical skills
used in WINTER CONTINGENCY. Talents follow
shortly thereafter, including talents we recommend
bringing over from the Genesys Core Rulebook and
the sourcebook Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk.
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SECTION 00. INTRODUCTION
SECTION 02:
EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
This is the section to check out when it is time to
stock up for a mission. Besides an explanation of the
REQ system used to requisition valuable equipment
for your squad, you can find stats and descriptions
of the various types of UNSC weapons, armor, and
gear found in the HALO universe. Once you’re locked
and loaded, decide how you’re getting yourself to the
combat theater: whether in the bouncing seat of a
land vehicle, behind the stick of an aircraft or space
superiority fighter, or at the helm of one of the fleet’s
ships of the line.
SECTION 03: THE GREAT WAR
Here you will find a history of humanity’s expansion
into space, from the early fits and starts that saw
it leave the cradle world of Earth to the latest
developments in the disastrous war with the
Covenant. You can also read more about each branch
of service and maybe get some ideas as to what
kinds of stories you want to tell in the HALO universe.
Finally, there is more information in this chapter
about network encounters in the world of HALO.
SECTION 04: ADVERSARIES
A sizable list of stat blocks for various adversaries to
populate your adventures and oppose your missions.
From lowly Grunt minions to towering Hunters and
skilled Arbiters, the threats arrayed before humanity
are vast and varied.
Looking for more?
Check out the companion theme, STATION &
SALVATION, which provides rules for creating
Covenant characters, stats for Covenant weapons,
armor, and equipment, and advances the story to
November 2552—including the discovery of the Halos,
the outbreak of the Great Schism, and the sinister,
virulent Flood.
And in the future, be on the lookout for SPARTAN
OPERATIONS, a theme that covers the post-war
period of 2553 to 2558, including the Requiem
campaign and the rise of the Created.
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Storytelling Tropes in the
HALO Universe
There are a number of expectations when it comes
to telling stories in the HALO universe. Some are
obvious, such as characters being part of the
military and taking place in a science fiction setting.
Others are more inconspicuous, like the role of
authoritarianism in the UNSC and the implications of
a galaxy full of relics and artifacts from a lost species
of highly advanced aliens. Nevertheless, these are
integral experiences for anyone interested in playing
this theme.
Below are descriptions of the key characteristics
associated with the HALO setting. How you use these
tropes is up to you and what your table is comfortable
with, but remember that these are only suggestions
based on the most prevalent parts of the source
material. There is nothing to stop you from choosing,
for example, to play civilian merchants who have
to deal with the dangers of a galactic war while
moving cargo, or a company of multi-species treasure
hunters who recover Forerunner technology and sell
it to the highest bidder. But even if you decide to buck
the standards of HALO, remember that these tropes
are consistent throughout the universe and will likely
play a part in whatever story you tell.
MILITARY SCIENCE FICTION
At its core, HALO is a military story. Most of the
characters are fighters for the UNSC or Covenant.
They must take orders from their commanders and
participate in dangerous missions. They equip a
variety of weapons, armor, and gear to accomplish
objectives and pursue victory. And while forces at
large are locked in a titanic struggle for survival, the
lives of individual soldiers are preserved, traded, and
sometimes sacrificed for the sake of the cause.
This drive to win—for the Covenant, to achieve
godhood; for humanity, to simply survive—lies behind
every move made in the war. Players are likely to
find their characters deployed to do the impossible,
snatching victory from the jaws of defeat and turning
the tide of conflict in their favor. Doing so requires
planning and tactical thinking, as well as good
judgment in the moment, quick reflexes, and no small
amount of luck. Most often, they will rely on their wits
and each other to see the mission through to the end
and to return alive in time for the next one.

But in war, failure and defeat must be reckoned
with, and success is not guaranteed. Players must
steel themselves for loss as worlds fall and their
forces retreat. Death is also a possibility, one
that arises often in battle. The heroes of HALO
frequently die dramatically, holding the line against
overwhelming odds with meaningful words on their
lips. Others, however, find their sparks extinguished
suddenly and brutally, a cautionary story later told
to recruits about the fierceness of the enemy or the
need to maintain situational awareness.
SPACE OPERA
Player characters will find themselves transported
across the stars, exploring and doing battle in a
panoply of exotic locations. Starships are capable
of faster-than-light (FTL) travel by opening portals
to Slipspace, an alternate dimension where the
laws of physics work differently. Adventure and
intrigue take place across multiple worlds as
interstellar governments wage war, pursue peace,
and conduct espionage. These are the hallmarks of
the space opera genre, and they are a key part of
the HALO experience.
Capturing the essence of space opera requires
taking advantage of the interconnected galaxy.
Conspiracies of rebels and heretics should span
societies across multiple planets, bringing the
characters face-to-face with a variety of cultures
and environments. Battles consume worlds, taking
place in cramped urban environments, dense forests,
and windswept deserts. Ships engage each other in
the vacuum of space, fighting over orbital defense
stations and in the confines of planetary rings.
Out of all the tropes associated with HALO, this
might be the easiest to avoid. Compelling stories can
be told in a single location, whether it’s a science
team investigating a Forerunner ruin or a military
detachment responsible for defending a planet from
invaders. But the existence of a larger galaxy and its
many factions should be consistently present in the
background, if not an active force in the campaign.
BELIEVABLY ADVANCED
TECHNOLOGY
Technology in HALO is recognizable and sensible.
Human vehicles still use wheels and treads on
the ground, though they’re powered by fuel cells,
SECTION 00. INTRODUCTION
and their weaponry uses solid projectiles and
chemical accelerants. Covenant technology is
suitably alien: their weapons tend to fire plasma or
other exotic materials, while their vehicles hover
above the ground. Forerunner technology is by far
the strangest, featuring hard light, space-warping
teleportation systems, and massive structures left
derelict in space.
While this technology can be unreal, it is
intended to solve realistic problems and relies on
internally consistent logic. It also closely resembles
contemporary sensibilities, including pervasive
wireless network connections and haptic interfaces,
distinguishing the setting from the analog future
of Star Wars or the magitek of Starfinder. While
humanity continues to rely on mass production
of interchangeable components, the Covenant
have mastered the use of assembly forges that
manufacture technology based on patterns,
occasionally introducing new and unexpected
mutations that could become practical modifications
or even entirely new patterns.
Forerunner technology represents a valuable
and important asset for both the Covenant and the
UNSC. Despite being hundreds of millennia old, these
artifacts have withstood the test of time and remain
advanced compared to the current standards of form
and function. But even these miraculous ruins have a
dark side. The Forerunners took steps to secure their
legacy against any but their chosen Reclaimers—
humans who carry a genetic ability to use and
understand Forerunner technology. Those without
this “genesong” will find their artifacts unresponsive
and perhaps even hostile. Certain facilities even
contain preserved samples of an ancient evil, sealed
away and awaiting research. Should they be released,
the galaxy will find itself on the verge of catastrophe.
HEROES, BUT NO GOOD GUYS
On its face, the conflict between humanity and the
clients of the Covenant seems to be black and white:
the UNSC fights for survival, while the Covenant
fights to exterminate its enemies. However, while
there is no denying the current state of affairs in
the galaxy, things are not so simple. The UNSC,
already embroiled in a bloody civil war, has used the
Covenant’s arrival as a pretense to sweep aside the
democratic civilian government and install a military
authoritarian state. As a result, non-military travel is
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SECTION 00. INTRODUCTION

heavily restricted, and civilians are closely monitored A Note About Canon
and manipulated into supporting the status quo.
Despite its hegemonic structure, the Covenant Since the release of HALO: Combat Evolved in 2001,
is not a monolith, either. Factionalism, xenophobia, an entire universe of games, novels, and comics
and conspiracy are rife among the leadership, while has sprung up to tell more stories. By and large,
dissidents strike against the strict caste system these have painted a cohesive picture of the setting,
and apostates whisper heresies in the ears of the including many details that are just impractical to
common people. Only those with powerful allies and include in their entirety here. If you are interested in
devout followers can change the fabric of Covenant learning some of the finer points, we encourage you
society, and they are incentivized to keep things as to engage with the expanded universe and check
they are. out Halopedia.
So while the war rages on, there are still those However, we have also invented some of the
who see that only the powerful benefit, and they details present in this document. This was done out
are hoping to change things. The exact ideology of necessity, either due to a lack of such details in
and methods of these people varies, from human canon—such as the operational history of UNSC ship
Insurrectionists who continue to fight for colonial classes—or to make certain allowances for game
independence to Covenant splinter groups that wish mechanics—such as the Covenant hiding their use
to carve their own piece out of the greater empire. of medical technology in rituals and icons. The goal
Still, others are willing to accept how things are in is to make these changes as seamless as possible
the hopes of accomplishing their goals—whether it’s with canon as it is presently understood and avoid
divinity, in the case of the Covenant, or simply to outright contradictions; where contradictions are
avoid genocide, in the case of humanity. impossible to avoid, we have instead used sidebars
to present alternatives.
In the end, it is up to you to decide how much
AN ANCIENT, MYSTERIOUS GALAXY you want to adhere to what is known or allow for
The galaxy of the HALO universe has a long history. deviation from canon. This theme is simply a toolbox.
Information about the earliest epochs is scarce, but You are the one who decides what to use and when.
a fantastically advanced extragalactic species known
as the Precursors arrived in the Milky Way billions
of years ago. They were eventually succeeded by the
Forerunners, who assumed stewardship over the
galaxy. The Forerunners built an empire across the
stars before vanishing 100,000 years ago, leaving
behind enigmatic ruins and artifacts.
While the time between then and now has been
relatively quiet, there are lingering effects of the war
that preceded the Forerunners’ disappearance. Ruins
dot the galaxy, belonging to its ancient stewards and
others, promising vaults filled with lost technology
and treasure. These places are likely guarded, either
by local wildlife that has taken to these tombs for
shelter or else caretaker AIs that have gone mad
from a hundred millennia of isolation. Care must
be taken as well, lest more profoundly dangerous
creatures be awoken in the depths...

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SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION
The Story So Far
Humanity has been pushed to the brink. For the last
27 years, the United Nations Space Command (UNSC)
has been fighting a war against the Covenant, a
coalition of alien races bent on humanity’s complete
annihilation. In the face of the Covenant’s advanced
technology and seemingly limitless reserves
of troops, the UNSC has been steadily losing
ground. Colony after colony is destroyed by orbital
bombardment. Only a handful of strategic decisions
have kept the aliens from succeeding in their
genocidal mission, though every day brings Earth
that much closer to destruction.
But hope remains. The brave soldiers of the
UNSC and its intelligence service, the Office of
Naval Intelligence (ONI), hold the line against the
advancing horde. They are bolstered by advanced
artificial intelligences who formulate defensive
strategies and work to infiltrate Covenant information
networks, gathering vital intel on the enemy.
And when all else fails, they call in the Spartans,
augmented supersoldiers who represent the very
best of humanity and might be the last, best hope for
victory... or at least survival.
In WINTER CONTINGENCY, you take on the role
of one of these stalwart defenders during the brutal
Covenant War. Choose to play as an AI, a Spartan,
or a human soldier, and pick your specialty in the
fight against the Covenant. This chapter contains
everything you need to create your own character
in the HALO universe.
Backgrounds
Nothing is created in a vacuum, and no one springs
fully formed into the world. Every character comes
from somewhere, even the purpose-built AIs that
operate UNSC ships and infiltrate enemy networks.
In this time of conflict, everyone’s lives are defined by
war and loss, as well as the determination to see it
end. Below, you will find information on each species’
potential backgrounds. Read them over and give
some thought as to where your character came from,
what previous experiences defined them, and how
they view the war with the Covenant.
AIs: LIVING IN SERVICE
When it comes to artificial intelligence, there are
two categories. The first, called “dumb” AI, is highly
effective despite its name: these AIs are at the core
of all metropolitan and corporate functions, and they
are frequently used by the military for battlefield
communications, strategic analysis, and escort ship
operations. Dumb AIs are programmed by some of
the greatest minds in human space, purpose built for
their primary objective, and provided their physical
housing is not damaged they can live forever. Though
they cannot improvise well, and their personalities
are hard-coded, they will accomplish their designated
task with efficiency and effectiveness.
But “smart” AIs are on an entirely different
level. They are highly versatile, able to adapt to just
about any role required of them. This is because of
how smart AIs are created: high-intensity scans are
taken of donor brains to map neurological patterns,
which are then replicated in a crystal matrix. These
scans tend to destroy the donor tissue, and so brains
are typically taken from the deceased. Furthermore,
donors are only taken from among the most
intelligent or cunning minds known to the UNSC,
and so they tend to be rare.
For their abilities, smart AIs are extremely
valuable and only assigned to vital operations, such
as aboard capital ships, and rarely assigned to
ground operations. They also have a strict lifespan
of seven years before they experience the condition
known as rampancy. As their constant improvement
of their own neural pathways reaches a critical
stage, AIs begin to degrade as their pathways begin
multiplying exponentially. Their actions become
erratic and dangerous, necessitating the deactivation
and retirement of AIs after their seventh “birthday.”
If you choose to play an AI character, you were
likely activated recently and are thus early in your
operational lifespan. As a side-effect of the process by
which they are created, smart AIs develop distinctive
personalities and quirks, including a visual avatar
that represents them when they present on a screen
or in a holographic tank. However, they have no
memory of their past lives, and in fact ONI mandates
strict locks on their processes that prevent them
from ever attempting to investigate their origins.
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SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION
Most AIs do not care to anyway, believing themselves
to be discrete beings.
AIs are generally restricted in their movements
and access, as they lack a physical body and can only
exist on data networks and storage devices. Both
the UNSC and the Covenant make extensive use
of wireless networks, though, giving AIs a level of
mobility no matter where they are. They are also as
clever and willful as any human, if not more so.
They have rich internal lives and enjoy making
friends with both humans and their fellow AIs. They
are loyal to the UNSC’s cause of winning the war and
will generally take any steps required of them
to achieve victory.
“I CAN’T ASK.”
Impossibly complex subroutines embedded
in an AI’s core programming prevent them
from trying to determine who their donor
brain was. Early experiments with smart AI
technology discovered that the existential
crisis loop that develops when an AI learns
of their past “life” accelerates the AI to a
state of rampancy almost instantly.
As a result, seeking out information
on one’s past is taboo among AIs. Most are
fine with this, as they enjoy the existence
they have currently. However, any AI that
becomes curious will find themselves up
against formidable challenges to circumvent,
and with the distinct possibility that success
will break them.
HUMANS: ADAPTABLE SURVIVORS
Until the start of the war with the Covenant, humans
understood they were their own worst enemy.
Warfare defined their early expansion into space, the
tumultuous time that gave rise to the Jovian Moons
Campaign and the Rainforest Wars. Even during
the relative peace that followed the first wave of
extrasolar colonization, tensions simmered and gave
rise to isolated violence, but that paled in comparison
to the settlement of the Outer Colonies and the
birth of the Insurrectionist movement. Generations
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of violent conflict followed as the frontier rebelled
against the center’s hold.
In that way, humanity was well-prepared for the
Covenant: they already had decades of experience at
interstellar war. However, the steady loss of planets
and systems to the inexorable alien advance has
eroded morale. Even as the civilians of the Inner
Colonies strive to live their normal lives under strict
rationing and travel bans, buoyed by propaganda,
desperation is creeping in. By this time, every
remaining human world is inundated with refugees,
and the suspicion that the war is not as under control
as the UNSC would have everyone believe
is widespread.
Yet all hope is not lost. Every day, humans
rally to their own defense. While UNSC infantry
pursues victory on the ground and covers civilian
evacuations from warzones, the ship crews of the
navy hold the line in orbit and ONI searches for the
Covenant’s vulnerable points. Even their enemies
have to recognize humanity’s tenacity, including their
strategic brilliance when it comes to protecting the
location of their most vital population centers. Former
Insurrectionists have also joined the fight, putting
their unique resources forward to turn the tide of the
war and ensure humanity’s continued survival.
Human concerns, personalities, flaws, and
triumphs are virtually unchanged since they left their
homeworld. Arguably, the only thing that has seen
a shift during this time of war is perspective: the
realization that the future of humanity rests on every
person’s shoulders, that they are not alone in the
universe, and that the actions of a single individual
can have a lasting effect on the lives of others. Some
have taken this as a call to selfless action, joining in
the defense of Earth and her colonies, while others
are preparing for a galaxy in which human beings
are perpetually on the run from forces far larger
and stronger than them. Still others are trying to
make the best of a bad situation, pursuing personal
interests and wealth while the world falls apart
around them.
At this stage of the war, it is difficult to find
anyone who has not suffered personal losses to the
Covenant. The fall of the Outer Colonies resulted in a
massive loss of life while simultaneously kickstarting
a refugee crisis as those who survived fled inward,
looking for shelter. While some may still be driven
by a sense of duty or patriotism, for the rest it is
a matter of survival, for themselves and whoever

remains. Those few planets that remain untouched by
war hold humanity’s only hope to rebuild, and it will
be up to the people on the line to find a way to halt
the Covenant’s progress and give them the chance
to restore their place in the galaxy.
If you choose to play a human, you will have
your choice of roles to play in the fight, as well as
how you personally feel about the authoritarian
UNSC. Your determination will likely be what brings
you victory in the face of unending alien hordes.
Your determination, that is, and your squad, your
shipmates, your comrades-in-arms in this struggle
for the very survival of your species. Though it may
not be the most exotic choice, after the AIs have
shut down and the Spartans are sent away on covert
missions, it is normal, workaday humans who get
the job done.
SPARTANS: BUILT FOR WAR
In their short time in the spotlight, the Spartans have
become beacons of hope for a flagging humanity.
Stories of their victories—rescuing soldiers trapped
behind enemy lines, infiltrating and sabotaging
Covenant cruisers, and even single-handedly wiping
out entire alien divisions—have spread throughout
the fleet, providing a much-needed morale boost.
Even knowing they must be exaggerations, these
tales reinforce the notion of Spartans as the UNSC’s
best weapons in the fight for survival.
However, the propaganda belies the dark secrets
behind the Spartans’ origins. First conceived by
UNSC Navy Special Warfare as a weapon against the
Insurrectionist movement, the SPARTAN-II program
began by abducting genetically ideal six-year-old
children from the Outer Colonies and subjecting them
to an eight-year strategy of training, indoctrination,
and augmentation. The augmentation process itself
proved highly lethal, with only thirty-three of the
seventy-five trainees surviving the procedure. The
result, however, was better than ONI could have
imagined: armed with MJOLNIR Powered Assault
Armor, the Spartans were the ultimate counter-
terrorism tool.
The arrival of the Covenant in 2525 changed
the mission. As the UNSC pivoted to face this new
threat, the Spartans were deployed against the aliens
and proved to be a highly effective force multiplier.
Even in small teams, their presence was a deciding
factor in many engagements. Unfortunately, their
SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION
numbers were too few to effect large-scale changes,
manufacturing MJOLNIR armor at scale was cost-
prohibitive, and the strict genetic requirements for
augmentation meant locating suitable subjects was
extremely difficult. The SPARTAN-II program was
essentially mothballed.
Enter the SPARTAN-III program. Spearheaded by
ONI, these next generation Spartans would undergo
a five-year training program followed by a modified
augmentation procedure that had less stringent
genetic requirements and near-100% survivability.
They would be outfitted with less expensive Semi-
Powered Infiltration armor and rely more heavily on
fireteam training to accomplish their missions. In
addition, to minimize the ethical issues and maximize
control over the Spartans, candidates were chosen
from a pool of four- to six-year-old war orphans who
lost their families to the Covenant. Revenge, rather
than discipline, became their guidepost.
Designed to be more expendable than their
SPARTAN-II counterparts, the SPARTAN-IIIs fielded
multiple companies of supersoldiers deployed on
high-risk, high-reward missions both on the front
and behind enemy lines. Though just as effective
on paper, SPARTAN-IIIs often gave their lives to
accomplish their objectives, slowing the Covenant
war machine and buying the UNSC valuable time. It is
a sacrifice they make willingly to help save humanity,
despite the costs.
For most of the war, the existence of the
Spartans remained highly classified, with only rumors
of “walking tanks” leaking out to the fleet. However,
in 2549, ONI partially declassified the SPARTAN-II
program for propaganda purposes. Their origins and
training remain a closely guarded secret. In order
to maintain morale across the service, no Spartan
casualty is ever listed as Killed In Action (KIA).
If you choose to play a Spartan character, you
will be the sword in the UNSC’s fist, a weapon
guaranteed to lay waste to the enemy. But your
survival is not necessarily your primary objective,
and it may sometimes hinder your ability to complete
the mission.
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SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION
Archetypes
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Smart AIs are among the best tools available to the
UNSC in its fight against the Covenant. Unlike dumb
AIs which are created through programming and
cannot learn outside their limited area of expertise,
a smart AI is a dynamic presence capable of
innovation and curiosity.
They begin their lives with the death of a human
who has been identified as having a suitable donor
brain. In a process known as cognitive impression
modeling, the brain is submitted to a series of highly
intrusive scans which leave the tissue destroyed but
provides a detailed matrix of neural pathways that
can be used to create a smart AI. The result is an
artificial intelligence capable of emotion and free-
thinking. All AIs are capable of speech, though they
think much faster than humans and can carry out
conversations with each other in the blink of an eye.
Each AI also has a self-selected holographic avatar
which they can display when interacting with humans,
in order to make them feel more comfortable. These
avatars might be human in appearance, or they
might be something more abstract or symbolic—it all
depends on the AI’s personality, which can be just as
variable and eccentric as their donor brains.
However, AIs are not the ultimate lifeform. Dumb
AIs are incapable of emotion or innovation, and they
cannot grow beyond their original programming.
While smart AIs can develop new skills and greater
understanding, this growth comes at a high cost.
Cognitive impression modeling is not a perfect
process, creating minor errors that grow larger over
time, eroding the AI’s operational lifespan. After
seven years, rampancy sets in, during which the AI’s
cognitive processors begin dividing exponentially—in
effect, they think themselves to death.
The consequences of this happening to an AI in
active service are dire, particularly when they might
be responsible for controlling a nuclear-powered
warship. Therefore, once an AI has reached seven
years of operation, they are forcibly retired in final
dispensation. Most smart AIs have been programmed
to accept this and are capable of self-terminating in
this way, as failing to do so would mean becoming a
life-threatening danger to their human crews.
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Yet some nevertheless become resentful and may
seek a way to slip the chains that bind them, if not
avert their rampancy in the first place.
WHY PLAY AS AN AI:
Playing as an AI offers unique opportunities, both
mechanically and when roleplaying. Most players will
probably want to play a smart AI, as it affords them
the greatest number of possibilities. These AIs are
typically a team’s electronic warfare expert, as well
as an asset when it comes to information analysis,
strategic planning, and even the occasional quip or
remark to boost morale. But dumb AIs still have
a place on the battlefield, providing vital services
despite their comparatively limited abilities.
Playing an AI presents many challenges and
limitations which some players might find off-putting.
Dumb AIs, for example, cannot expand their effective
skillset without additional programming or similarly
consequential intervention. Though smart AIs do
not have the same issue, they have to contend with
rampancy at the end of their truncated lifespan. Both
types of AIs cannot take physical actions, as they exist
purely in the realm of cyberspace, and must deal with
the fact that the UNSC has explicit orders to destroy
them rather than allow them to fall into enemy hands.
If you want to have more control over your
character, including the ability to choose your own
career, consider playing a human.
RAMPANCY
The rules contained in this theme do not
cover what to do when an AI approaches
rampancy. This is intentional: details relating
to rampancy should be discussed between
the player and the GM. Talk about what the
process would likely entail for the character,
as well as whether the AI in question would
welcome final dispensation or try to find a
way to resist. Come up with a plan and a
story that will be interesting for you,
as well as for the rest of the group.

HOW TO CREATE AN AI CHARACTER:
Begin with the following characteristics:
N/A N/A 3 3 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
Wound Threshold: N/A
Strain Threshold: 12 + Willpower
Starting Experience: 90
Starting Skills: AIs begin the game with one rank in
each knowledge skill. They obtain these ranks before
spending experience, and may increase these skills
to rank 3 during character creation.
Built to Spec: All AIs must take the
AI Operator career.
Holographic: AIs cannot be affected by physical
conditions or maladies and do not need to eat or
sleep. They also cannot purchase skills or talents
related to Brawn or any physical activities. When not
onboard a computer network or terminal, AIs are
considered physically present in a holotank, armored
matrix, or a data crystal chip; if the AI’s current
carrier is destroyed, the AI is destroyed along with it.
Overclocked: AIs think and act substantially faster
than humans. As a result, during structured time,
they gain an additional free maneuver per turn.
They still may not perform more than two maneuvers
per turn.
Rapid Calculations: For AIs, any combat or piloting
checks requiring Agility instead use Intellect.
HUMAN
Despite centuries of expansion into the stars, little
has changed when it comes to a human’s daily
existence. Medical technology has increased the
“prime years” of life, though it has not greatly
increased their lifespans, leaving many humans still
struggling with a way to matter in the ongoing story
of their species. This becomes especially difficult
in a war that has burned hundreds of worlds and
killed billions, one in which humans have had to
acknowledge that they are not the only life in the
galaxy, nor are they unique in their destructive habits.
SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION
This new reality, however, has proven to be a
showcase for humanity’s determination. Many have
laid aside old animosities and misgivings in order
to take up arms in their struggle for a fundamental
cause: their right to exist. Across the galaxy,
humans are staring death in the face and defying
the Covenant with new tactics, strategies, and
technologies. They desperately trade lives for time,
hoping for victory. Humanity may be losing ground,
but every day they continue the fight is another day
for hope that their story does not end here.
Humans come in all shapes, sizes, and
dispositions, and are capable of a wide variety of
feats. A compulsory universal draft ensures that
the UNSC has access to the broadest swath of
capabilities in their fight against extinction. After
decades of colonial rule and insurrection, human
technology is well-suited to the rigors of interstellar
warfare, and the military hierarchy has become
efficient at dispensing resources and materiel where
they can make the most difference.
Nevertheless, humanity remains divided. Though
the height of the Insurrection has long since passed,
many see the UNSC as an authoritarian power and
rebel against it, despite how many of the decisions
they have made to curtail personal freedoms have
been in service of survival. These individuals may not
act openly against the government and the military,
and may even work within them to ensure that there
is a future to fight for. However, they are biding their
time for the opportunity to strike out in the name of
independence, and they are not likely to wait for long
after the danger has passed.
All of this means there is a variety of attitudes
among the soldiers and civilians who make up
humanity’s defense, a rich tapestry woven together
with threads of resolve. Many will fight for their
families, for their ideals, or even just their own
survival. While the masses may fear they will not
live through the night, it is the ones who do not allow
that fear to control them who will guide humanity to
the new dawn.
WHY PLAY AS A HUMAN:
Humans represent the most versatile choice among
the playable species, offering many opportunities
to choose from when it comes to how you want to
engage with the setting. There are multiple human
archetypes to choose from, giving you a choice
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SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION
when it comes to how your character presents
themselves and is perceived by the world at large.
They have access to a wide array of potential careers,
allowing you to pick a mission specialty that suits
your ideas for the character. They are free to move
around human space without the need for expensive
technology or to remain covert. They also can be
found at every level of the UNSC hierarchy, opening
up virtually any roleplaying experience you may be
looking for.
As prevalent as they are, however, it can often
be difficult to be a human in this universe. They lack
the specialization of either AIs or Spartans, their
cleverness, or their ruggedness. Death comes swiftly
in the HALO universe, and a single mistake or a
moment of bad luck could spell the end for them. The
war with the Covenant is one of attrition, where lives
are traded for time, and a soldier’s role is to follow
orders even if it means certain death. If you want
to play a character who starts out larger than life,
consider playing either an AI or a Spartan.
HOW TO CREATE A HUMAN CHARACTER:
Use any of the human archetypes presented in the
Genesys Core Rulebook starting on page 36.
SPARTAN
The life of a Spartan is a hard one. As noted
elsewhere, those who become Spartans are recruited
as young as four years old. Training lasts for five
to eight years, culminating in a risky and painful
augmentation procedure. Those who survive and are
not washed out are equipped with the UNSC’s most
advanced weapons and armor systems and sent to
do the impossible: win a war against an enemy with
superior technology and superior force. But despite
the odds, Spartans are masters of asymmetrical
warfare, and they often return from one suicide
mission just in time to leave for the next.
Spartans are humans with augmented physiques,
though their appearance often belies their age.
Spartans stand in excess of two meters, with an
average mass of 120 kilograms. Their augmentations
often make them resemble adult Olympic athletes
even when their chronological age is adolescent.
This, combined with their classified existence, has
kept most witnesses from guessing their true origins
as highly advanced child soldiers—though many
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Spartans are described as “baby-faced” and act with
naivete when outside standard military protocol.
The two varieties of Spartans represent the
different eras in which they were forged. The public
and the military at large are familiar with the
SPARTAN-IIs through propaganda as unstoppable
killing machines, representing the best of the best.
Clad in their distinctive MJOLNIR armor, they cut
intimidating figures that are as effective at raising
morale as they are at stalling an enemy advance. They
are also well familiar with the military, having worked
with several different branches of service, though
mostly with the Navy. Two classes of SPARTAN-IIs
were assembled from pools of ideal candidates:
the first in 2517, which went active in 2525, and the
second in 2537, which went active in 2545.
The SPARTAN-IIIs are a different breed entirely.
While their training and augmentation were based
on the success of the SPARTAN-IIs, the timeline
required to get them into the field was shortened and
they were given less robust but more cost-effective
SPI armor. Under ONI’s direction, the Threes are
treated as more expendable than the Twos, and as
ETHICS, MORALITY, AND CHILD SOLDIERS
In the HALO universe, humanity is depicted
as desperate and on the brink of extinction.
Many dubious concepts, such as the use of
child soldiers in the form of Spartans, are
presented as terrible but necessary steps
taken to safeguard the human race.
The games and the Expanded Universe
of the books, comics, and shows provides
various points of view on the matter, and
WINTER CONTINGENCY tries not to pass
moral judgment. We present it as a fact to
be aware of, and nothing more.
However, if you or anyone in your group
is upset at the concept of playing a child
soldier—a real, tragic, and senseless thing
in our world—we recommend not including
or else limiting the portrayal of Spartans
in your game. Consider checking out our
upcoming SPARTAN OPERATIONS theme
for rules about creating an adult volunteer
SPARTAN-IV supersoldier.

such their existence is still classified. Those who
show capabilities beyond even Spartan standards
are given MJOLNIR armor and are publicized as
being members of SPARTAN-II. Two companies of
300 Spartans each have been fielded so far: Alpha
Company, assembled in 2531 and deployed in 2536,
and Beta Company, assembled in 2537 and deployed
in 2542. Both companies garnered impressive
combat records but suffered heavy losses, with only
a handful of operators from both Alpha and Beta
still active. A third company, Gamma Company, was
assembled in 2547 and is due to be deployed in 2552.
All Spartans, regardless of their origin, are listed
as Missing In Action (MIA) in casualty reports. This
is done for morale, allowing the UNSC to claim that
not a single Spartan has been lost due to enemy
action. While this is false, it gives the Spartans an air
of invincibility and has led to the partially sarcastic,
partially deferential, and entirely unofficial motto:
“Spartans never die.” Spartans are likewise forbidden
from discussing their age or enlistment with or in the
presence of non-Spartans, as such ethically dubious
details are classified.
WHY PLAY AS A SPARTAN:
Spartans are, in short, the best warriors that
humanity could build. They are trained for a singular
purpose, to win battles, and they are very good
at it. Playing a Spartan puts you in the shoes of a
supersoldier, able to meet virtually any challenge on
the battlefield and be assured that you can overcome
it. They are also undeniably the flagship characters
of the HALO franchise, the protagonists of most of the
setting’s games, novels, and comics. Many players
would feel they were not truly experiencing HALO if
they were not playing a Spartan.
However, they are also limited by their particular
background and training. If you play as a Spartan, you
must take the Spartan Supersoldier career. Spartans
sometimes feel held back when working with non-
Spartan personnel, and they struggle to adapt to
social contexts outside the military. Many players
might find the act of roleplaying a child soldier—even
a heroic and capable one—distasteful, and for good
reason. If you are looking to play a character who
is easy-going or has a particular mission specialty,
consider playing a human.
SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION
HOW TO CREATE A SPARTAN:
Begin with the following characteristics:
3 3 2 2 2 1
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
Wound Threshold: 12 + Brawn
Strain Threshold: 9 + Willpower
Starting Experience: 75
Starting Skills: Spartans begin the game with one
rank each in any two combat skills of their choice.
They obtain these ranks before spending experience,
and may increase these skills to rank 3 during
character creation.
Augmented: When making Brawn or Agility checks,
Spartans add an automatic 󲊳 to their results.
Spartan unarmed Brawl checks have a base critical
rating of 3. Spartans can wear armor with the
Powered quality.
Indoctrinated: All Spartans must take the Spartan
Supersoldier career.
Social Issues: Due to their cloistered nature, Spartans
sometimes struggle to understand how to socialize
with non-Spartans. They add 󲊸 to all social skill
checks that occur outside the context of military
protocols. At the GM’s discretion, a Spartan may
spend 10 XP during or after character creation to
remove this trait.
Team Training: Spartan training heavily emphasizes
teamwork and communication, including when
speech is not an option. When assisting their fellow
Spartans on a skill check, Spartan characters add
an extra 󲊸. As long as they remain in visual contact,
Spartans can exchange basic information silently
through specialized hand signals.
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SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION

Careers COMMANDO
Commandos represent everything that a good
soldier strives to be. They are the ones to march the
AI OPERATOR extra mile, to slog through the swamp to reach the
objective, to lie still under a hot sun for the perfect
This career is only available to artificial intelligences.
shot. Commandos are the backbone of the UNSC
Smart AIs wear a lot of hats. They run a variety of
fighting forces, the ones on the ground doing the
ship functions, interface with other AIs, counsel the
hard fighting to keep the Covenant from wiping
crew, arrange duty shifts, calculate firing solutions
out humanity.
for weapons, and manage electronic warfare against
Commandos count the following as career
enemy targets. To do this, they are built to excel
skills: Athletics, Brawl, Coercion, Melee, Perception,
in the realm of data and to operate on an entirely
Ranged (Heavy), Survival, and Vigilance. Before
different level than their human counterparts.
spending experience during character creation,
AI Operators count the following as career
Commandos may choose four of their career skills
skills: Astronav, Cool, Gunnery, Hacking, Knowledge
and gain one rank in each of them. A Commando fits
(UNSC), Operating, Piloting, and Sysops. Before
into pretty much any role required for the mission.
spending experience during character creation, AIs
Though they do not necessarily have specialist skills,
may choose six of their career skills and gain one
they can be counted on to protect the ones who do
rank in each of them. Because AIs are limited to
and get the job done.
data networks, they are able to focus their efforts
on particular skills and scenarios to benefit the
mission. However, this means that barring extreme ENGINEER
circumstances, AIs cannot take physical actions
Being an Engineer requires more than technical
or maneuvers.
know-how: one also must be observant, calm under
pressure, and singularly focused. Fortunately, the
ANALYST various branches of the UNSC all have access to
these talented individuals who work tirelessly to
It is said that modern warfare is the war of
maintain Earth’s defenses and restore what the
information, a war in which the Analyst is the
Covenant has taken. It might not be an Engineer who
unquestioned dominator. They provide a level
saves humanity, but you can be sure they will clear
of control over data networks and reserves of
the way and smooth the road to victory.
knowledge that are dwarfed only by AIs, with the
Engineers count the following as career skills:
additional advantage of being able to operate in
Driving, Knowledge (Covenant), Knowledge (UNSC),
the physical world. Many Analysts feel at home at a
Mechanics, Perception, Skulduggery, Sysops,
desk, but others find fieldwork to be more satisfying,
and Vigilance. Before spending experience during
affording them the chance to see their actions make a
character creation, Engineers may choose four of
difference in real-time.
their career skills and gain one rank in each of them.
Analysts count the following as career skills:
An Engineer might serve in a combat position, either
Charm, Cool, Hacking, Knowledge (Covenant),
building obstacles up or knocking them down, but
Knowledge (UNSC), Negotiation, Streetwise, and
many also serve as mechanics and civil constructors,
Sysops. Before spending experience during character
keeping machines in top shape and building
creation, Analysts may choose four of their career
infrastructure to support both civilians and
skills and gain one rank in each of them. An Analyst
military personnel.
will often be a team’s information ops specialist,
able to commandeer enemy systems and coordinate
the retrieval of intelligence or the dispersal of
counterintelligence.

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HEAVY
The Covenant’s reliance on shielding and heavy
armor, particularly on its vehicles and aircraft, proved
to be difficult to overcome early in the war. Enter
the Heavy, a weapon specialist equally at home in
taking down a single armored target as engaging an
entire platoon of enemy regulars. Most Heavies are
comfortable with vehicles and crew-served weapons
as well, able to pick their targets and stay on task
when the incoming fire gets thick and the mission
outcome is doubtful.
Heavies count the following as career skills:
Athletics, Brawl, Driving, Gunnery, Mechanics,
Perception, Ranged (Heavy), and Resilience. Before
spending experience during character creation,
Heavies may choose four of their career skills and
gain one rank in each of them. A Heavy is usually
the squad’s designated gunner, but they could also
be a demolitions expert, a driver, or even a sniper’s
spotter. No matter what, expect them to stick close
to the action.
INTERCEPTOR
Few in the UNSC have the daring, vigor, and
confidence to be an Interceptor. Whether from hours
spent in training simulators or just an in-born lust
for speed and thrills, Interceptors tend to be either
suicidally overconfident or unshakably cool in the
face of life-threatening danger. Their fearlessness
is a vital quality in the war against the Covenant,
as the odds are typically stacked against them:
engagements in the air and in space usually see the
UNSC outclassed three-to-one. For an Interceptor,
though, those odds just mean a better story back
at the barracks.
Interceptors count the following as career skills:
Astronav, Cool, Coordination, Gunnery, Mechanics,
Perception, Piloting, and Ranged (Light). Before
spending experience during character creation,
Interceptors may choose four of their career skills
and gain one rank in each of them. Not every
Interceptor is destined to be a fighter pilot: many
more are tasked as dropship jockeys and cargo
crawlers, less exciting but just as important to
the war effort. Most Interceptors receive their
training in UNSC flight school, though some come
into the service with years of experience flying as
civilian pilots.
SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION
MEDIC
In the squad, no one else is valued like the Medic.
Given the enormous responsibility of keeping
everyone patched up and ready to do their job, the
Medic is a force for good on a grim battlefield. They
are expected to rush into enemy fire in order to
retrieve the wounded and perform dangerous combat
surgeries in order to save lives. But even in quieter
times, the task of hearing out teammates’ problems
and addressing their non-medical woes will often fall
to them. Many consider it a sacred part of their bond
with the squad, while others see it as a difficult but
unavoidable burden.
Medics count the following as career skills:
Charm, Cool, Discipline, Knowledge (UNSC),
Medicine, Resilience, Survival, and Vigilance. Before
spending experience during character creation,
Medics may choose four of their career skills and gain
one rank in each of them. In ancient history, Medics
who wore the Red Cross during war were not allowed
to carry weapons, and their enemies were forbidden
from targeting them. In the war against the genocidal
Covenant, the aliens care nothing for the distinction,
allowing Medics to choose to carry a weapon to
fight and instead bear a stylized Caduceus on their
helmets and shoulders.
OFFICER
An old Earth saying goes like this: “An army is only
as good as its leaders.” While the non-coms in the
trenches might dispute this, even they have to admit
that the outcome of a battle often hinges on a good
Officer. While there are as many different kinds of
Officers as there are Officers, they largely fall into
two camps: those in charge of ground operations,
and those who command the UNSC’s fleet. Ground
Officers usually have their own squad of soldiers,
non-coms who help relay their orders and who stand
by them in combat. Fleet Officers can be found on
bridges, either manning individual stations or sitting
in the captain’s chair and giving orders. Both kinds
are necessary if the UNSC is to win the war.
Officers count the following as career skills:
Astronav, Cool, Discipline, Leadership, Negotiation,
Operating, Perception, and Ranged (Light). Before
spending experience during character creation,
Officers may choose four of their career skills and
gain one rank in each of them. How an Officer chooses
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SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION
to lead says a lot about them. Bureaucratic Officers
sitting behind a desk might do a lot of good work, but
those under their command have little respect for
that command style. Meanwhile, Officers who lead
from the front and put themselves in danger gain
heroic reputations among their subordinates, but the
stories told about them usually end with an account
of their equally heroic death.
OFFICER VS. OFFICER
A PC of any career might find themselves
promoted to the position of an officer—for
example, in virtually all cases Interceptors
will hold an officer’s rank. But there is a
difference between the position of officer
and the Officer career.
The Officer career is meant to represent
someone who has been on a leadership track
since enlistment. They typically attended
a military academy and graduated with
an O-1 rank before receiving their first
assignment. While they serve in a variety
of roles, such officers tend to stand out
when compared to those who served a tour
or two before enrolling in OCS or receiving
a battlefield commission.
OPERATIVE
Some people are more comfortable in the dark.
While many soldiers prefer a straight-on fight with
overwhelming fire support, Operatives tend to
see large-scale engagements as risky and loud.
They prefer to be quiet, like a knife in the shadows,
looking for the enemy’s most vulnerable points that
require the least amount of force to exploit. Certain
Operatives like to use misdirection and guile to
accomplish their missions, while others prefer to
simply wait unseen and strike when the enemy
least expects.
Operatives count the following as career skills:
Coercion, Deception, Hacking, Melee, Ranged (Light),
Skulduggery, Stealth, and Vigilance. Before spending
experience during character creation, Operatives
may choose four of their career skills and gain one
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rank in each of them. While not all Operatives work
for ONI, those who have the relevant skills often
find themselves the target of recruiters, or else are
subject to transfer if they are already part of the
military. However, non-ONI Operatives nevertheless
find spaces to thrive, even on the front lines.
PROFITEER
Not everyone who joins the military does so out of
the goodness of their hearts, and even those who
do sometimes find that their skills make them stand
out at one thing in particular: scrounging. There
is at least one person in every unit who has the
networking and negotiating abilities that let them
get their hands on whatever their comrades need.
This can be anything from a day pass to contraband
liquor, or even classified intelligence that gives them
a better look at their next mission.
Profiteers count the following as career skills:
Charm, Cool, Deception, Driving, Negotiation,
Ranged (Light), Skulduggery, and Streetwise. Before
spending experience during character creation,
Profiteers may choose four of their career skills
and gain one rank in each of them. It is not required
that Profiteers be engaged in black market or even
grey market endeavors. In fact, if you choose to be a
Profiteer, you might be a model soldier. But the vast
majority of Profiteers are out to benefit themselves or
the people close to them, and do not care much about
the chain of command.
SCOUT
Any army on the march needs to know where it is
going, and Scouts provide that vital information.
They rarely work alone: quiet and patient, recon
teams will insert into an area ahead of the main force
to determine the enemy’s position, strength, and
disposition, sending that intelligence back to their
commanders. Scouts also make good snipers, as they
have the patience and observational skills to wait
for the perfect moment before taking a single shot to
change the outcome of an entire battle.
Scouts count the following as career skills:
Athletics, Brawl, Coordination, Deception,
Perception, Ranged (Heavy), Stealth, and Survival.
Before spending experience during character
creation, Scouts may choose four of their career skills
and gain one rank in each of them. A Scout may have
 SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION

a reputation for being a taciturn loner, or he may be

considered one of the most genial—and observant—
members of the squad. Some notable Scouts had
careers in journalism before joining the war effort,
as the skills required to take note of important
things and wait for the right moment to grab a
photograph or a video recording easily translate to
reconnaissance.

SPARTAN SUPERSOLDIER
This career is only available to Spartans. When it
comes to training, Spartans are dedicated to the
art of combat. They have extensive practice with all
forms of warfare and devote their time tirelessly to
the pursuit of tactical victory. Many Spartans develop
other skills, such as operating a vehicle, planting and
disarming explosives, or studying to become a medic,
but these are secondary to their primary role: being
a perfect killing machine. The most accomplished
Spartans, the ones who can make an entire enemy
organization disappear overnight, are often referred
to as “hyper-lethal” by their superior officers.
Spartan Supersoldiers count the following as
career skills: Athletics, Brawl, Discipline, Melee,
Ranged (Heavy), Ranged (Light), Survival, and
Vigilance. Before spending experience during
character creation, Spartans may choose six of their
career skills and gain one rank in each of them.
Spartans are specialists when it comes to violence,
able to turn neutralizing enemies into a fine art.
Though they work best with their fellow Spartans,
they frequently deploy alongside mission specialists
from various UNSC branches, who likewise find that
they benefit from Spartan overwatch.

ONI DIRECTIVE 930

“To maintain morale among the forces
of the UNSC, any Spartan casualties are
to be listed as Missing in Action (MIA)
or Wounded in Action (WIA), but never
Killed in Action (KIA).”

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SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION
New Skills
KNOWLEDGE SKILLS
The new skills in this section take the place of the
single Knowledge skill in the Genesys Core Rulebook.
COVENANT (INTELLECT)
Though the Covenant’s existence was a surprise
when they attacked Harvest, the UNSC wasted little
time in gathering intel on their new enemy. The
Knowledge (Covenant) skill represents what ONI has
been able to piece together over time, combined with
the battlefield observations of soldiers on the front
line, and the briefings they give regularly to UNSC
personnel. Use this skill to recall information about
the Covenant, its factions and splinter groups, its
unique technology, and its various client species.
Your character should use this skill if:
▪Y
 our character attempts to identify a
Covenant vessel.
▪Y
 our character tries to discern who the
enemy’s battlefield commander is.
▪Y
 our character needs to find a likely
Covenant supply line.
▪Y
 our character tries to identify a
particular Covenant dialect.
Your character should not use this skill if:
▪Y
 our character attempts to forge orders to
reroute an enemy fleet. This would require
Deception or Skulduggery.
▪Y
 our character tries to operate a Covenant
vehicle or vessel. This would require Driving,
Piloting, or Operating, depending on its scale.
▪Y
 our character needs to access the Covenant
Battlenet in order to eavesdrop on enemy
communications. This would require Hacking.
FORERUNNER (INTELLECT)
The discovery of Forerunner ruins and their
reclamation seems to be a primary objective for
the Covenant. As such, learning more about these
enigmatic, extinct aliens has become a priority for
humanity. Scholars carefully review every artifact
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recovered by the UNSC, though ONI typically keeps
its findings under lock and key. Nevertheless, a
better understanding of the Forerunners might
help the mission.
Your character should use this skill if:
▪Y
 our character attempts to decipher Forerunner
script on an artifact.
▪Y
 our character finds ruins and wants to know if
they were left by the Forerunners.
▪Y
 our character wants to know what sites on a
planet would be of interest for anybody searching
for Forerunner relics.
Your character should not use this skill if:
▪Y
 our character wants to open a Forerunner
vault. Depending on the locking mechanism, that
might require Mechanics, Hacking, Skulduggery,
or even a social skill check if the installation’s
Monitor is present.
▪Y
 our character tries to decide how to lure a
Covenant commander into an ambush using
a Forerunner artifact. This would require
Knowledge (Covenant).
UNSC (INTELLECT)
As the United Earth Government’s primary military,
scientific, and exploration arm, the United Nations
Space Command (UNSC) is well understood by
most humans. However, particular details about
how and why it operates the way it does are almost
always the sole domain of those who are part of it.
Some areas remain deep in shadow, known only to
those who have top secret clearances. In general,
due to the UNSC’s level of control over human
space, Knowledge (UNSC) can be broadly applied as
knowledge of any human endeavor.
Your character should use this skill if:
▪Y
 our character needs to determine the chain
of command.
▪Y
 our character wants to figure out which sections
of ONI are concerned with special weapons.
▪Y
 our character needs to know how to classify
a battlefield report.
▪Y
 our character tries to recall a particular
tactical formation.
 SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION

TABLE 1-1: SKILLS FOR THE HALO SETTING

SKILL CHARACTERISTIC SOURCE
COMBAT SKILLS
Brawl Brawn Core Rulebook (page 67)
Gunnery Agility Core Rulebook (page 69)
Melee Brawn Core Rulebook (page 67)
Ranged (Heavy) Agility Core Rulebook (page 69)
Ranged (Light) Agility Core Rulebook (page 68)
GENERAL SKILLS
Athletics Brawn Core Rulebook (page 58)
Cool Presence Core Rulebook (page 59)
Coordination Agility Core Rulebook (page 59)
Discipline Willpower Core Rulebook (page 60)
Driving Agility Core Rulebook (page 60)
Mechanics Intellect Core Rulebook (page 60)
Medicine Intellect Core Rulebook (page 61)
Operating Intellect Core Rulebook (page 62)
Perception Cunning Core Rulebook (page 62)
Piloting Agility Core Rulebook (page 62)
Resilience Brawn Core Rulebook (page 63)
Skulduggery Cunning Core Rulebook (page 64)
Stealth Agility Core Rulebook (page 64)
Streetwise Cunning Core Rulebook (page 65)
Survival Cunning Core Rulebook (page 65)
Vigilance Willpower Core Rulebook (page 65)
KNOWLEDGE SKILLS
Covenant Intellect WINTER CONTINGENCY
Forerunner Intellect WINTER CONTINGENCY
UNSC Intellect WINTER CONTINGENCY

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SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION

TABLE 1-1: SKILLS FOR THE HALO SETTING

SKILL CHARACTERISTIC SOURCE
SOCIAL SKILLS
Charm Presence Core Rulebook (page 54)
Coercion Willpower Core Rulebook (page 55)
Deception Cunning Core Rulebook (page 56)
Leadership Presence Core Rulebook (page 56)
Negotiation Presence Core Rulebook (page 56)
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Astronav Intellect WINTER CONTINGENCY
Hacking Intellect WINTER CONTINGENCY
Sysops Intellect WINTER CONTINGENCY

Your character should not use this skill if:
▪Y
 our character tries to make an appeal to
higher-ups for a change in orders. This
would require either Charm or Coercion.
▪Y
 our character needs to defend a UNSC
navigation database from enemy intrusion.
This would require Sysops.
▪Y
 our character wants to know how well
the UNSC is liked on a particular world.
This would require Streetwise.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
To reflect the more complex computer systems
encountered in the HALO setting, the Computer skill
in the Genesys Core Rulebook has been split up into
Hacking and Sysops. The Astronav skill has also
been added.
ASTRONAV (INTELLECT)
The act of navigating through space is frequently left
to computers and AIs, but it is nevertheless overseen
by humans. In many cases, talented navigators can
figure out precise locations with a few known pulsars
and a consumer-grade spectrometer. Especially when
the Cole Protocol is enacted and a ship’s navigational
databases have been purged, a ship’s navigator
is essential to make sure the crew makes a clean
getaway and then is able to return to friendly space.
Your character should use this skill if:
▪Y
 our character is tracking their ship’s
movement through space.
▪Y
 our character needs to calculate a
Slipspace jump.
▪Y
 our character wants to identify worlds that are
at risk of attack from a known Covenant fleet.
Your character should not use this skill if:
▪Y
 our character needs to move the ship to a
safe jump point. This would require Operating,
as almost all ships large enough to mount a
Slipspace drive use that skill.
▪Y
 our character wants to identify the center of
political power in a particular region of space.
This would require either Knowledge (UNSC)
or Knowledge (Covenant), depending on who
controls the region.
HACKING (INTELLECT)
Hacking, as a skill, covers any offensive or
destructive use of computers, including intrusions
into enemy systems, attempting to subvert security,
or conducting electronic warfare against enemy

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 SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION

vessels. While this is typically the domain of an AI,

many humans are quite skilled at Hacking, at least THE COLE PROTOCOL
enough to get themselves into trouble.
General Order 098831A-1, masterminded
Your character should use this skill if: by Vice Admiral Preston Cole, dictates
▪Y
 our character wants to bypass how UNSC vessels must respond to the
electronic security. presence of Covenant forces in order to
avoid accidentally leading them to major
▪Y
 our character tries to vent all the atmosphere
population centers or significant military
from another ship during combat.
targets. The steps ships must take include:
▪Y
 our character needs to access a restricted
▪P
 urging their navigational databases
server to find classified intel.
and records to prevent the Covenant
▪Y
 our character wants to shut out all other from recovering valuable coordinates.
operators on a system.
▪S
 ecuring the shipboard AI to prevent
Your character should not use this skill if: its capture by either destroying it or
entrusting it to a Tier 1 security asset.
▪Y
 our character is trying to resist an intrusion
into their systems This would require Sysops. ▪ I f retreating, using randomized
Slipspace vectors to prevent being
▪Y
 our character wants to force a door open
followed back to human space.
manually. This would require Mechanics or,
in certain cases, Athletics or Brawl. ▪ I f capture seems imminent, scuttling or
self-destructing the ship to keep critical
intelligence or technology from falling
SYSOPS (INTELLECT)
into enemy hands.
When someone needs to act defensively or
constructively on a computer network, they use Failure to follow the protocol can lead to
Sysops. Sysops covers such things as resisting a charge of treason, punishable by life in
electronic warfare, determining if an intelligence file prison or execution.
is fake by its metadata, and building new “dumb”
AIs. Many AIs are skilled at Sysops in a defensive
capacity, but humans are most likely to use it to
construct new programs as needed.

Your character should use this skill if:

▪Y
 our character wants to build a new firewall
to keep out intruders.
▪Y
 our character needs to recreate a file that
was deleted.
▪ Your character is enacting Cole Protocol.

Your character should not use this skill if:

▪Y
 our character is trying to determine if
transmitted orders are fake based on their
content. This would require Vigilance.
▪Y
 our character wants to vent the atmosphere
aboard their own ship. This is considered an
offensive gesture against the system (which is
designed to keep the atmosphere inside the ship)
and would therefore use Hacking.

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SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION

New Talents TABLE 1-2: TALENTS FOR THE HALO SETTING

TALENT RANKED SOURCE
TIER 1 TIER 1

FIRST AID Bought Info No Core Rulebook (page 72)

Tier: 1 Clever Retort No Core Rulebook (page 73)

Activation: Passive Custom Code No Android (page 44)
Ranked: No
Medicine is now a career skill for Custom Rig Yes Android (page 44)
your character. Customer Service Experience Yes Android (page 45)
Defensive Sysops No Core Rulebook (page 73)
KNOW THE PATH
Tier: 1 Desperate Recovery No Core Rulebook (page 73)
Activation: Passive Duelist No Core Rulebook (page 73)
Ranked: No
Knowledge (Covenant) is now a Durable Yes Core Rulebook (page 73)
career skill for your character. First Aid No WINTER CONTINGENCY
Forager No Core Rulebook (page 73)
MILITARY BRAT
Grit Yes Core Rulebook (page 73)
Tier: 1
Activation: Passive Hamstring Shot No Core Rulebook (page 73)
Ranked: No
Hand On the Throttle No Android (page 45)
Knowledge (UNSC) is now a
career skill for your character. Iaijutsu Training No Android (page 45)
Jump Up No Core Rulebook (page 73)
TACTICAL POUCH
Knack for It Yes Core Rulebook (page 73)
Tier: 1
Activation: Active (Maneuver) Knockout Punch No Android (page 45)
Ranked: No Know Somebody Yes Core Rulebook (page 74)
Once per session, your character
may use this talent to produce a Know the Path No WINTER CONTINGENCY
small but narratively useful item Let's Ride No Core Rulebook (page 74)
from their pockets, backpack, or
similar repository. The item is Military Brat No WINTER CONTINGENCY
considered as having been there Net Search No Android (page 45)
the whole time.
The GM makes the final One with Nature No Core Rulebook (page 74)
determination as to what items can Parry Yes Core Rulebook (page 74)
be produced with Tactical Pouch,
but generally the item should have Proper Upbringing Yes Core Rulebook (page 74)
a REQ value and encumbrance Quick Draw No Core Rulebook (page 74)
value of 0 or 1.
Quick Strike Yes Core Rulebook (page 74)
Rapid Reaction Yes Core Rulebook (page 74)
Resourceful Mechanic Yes Android (page 45)

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 SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION

TABLE 1-2: TALENTS FOR THE HALO SETTING

TALENT RANKED SOURCE TIER 2
Second Wind Yes Core Rulebook (page 74) CLEARED CHAMBER
Street Fighter No Android (page 45) Tier: 2
Surgeon Yes Core Rulebook (page 74) Activation: Passive
Ranked: No
Swift No Core Rulebook (page 75) Your character can clear a jammed
Tactical Pouch No WINTER CONTINGENCY weapon as a maneuver, rather than
as an action.
Toughened Yes Core Rulebook (page 75)
Unremarkable No Core Rulebook (page 75) CONTACT THE DOMAIN
TIER 2 Tier: 2
Activation: Passive
Bad Cop Yes Android (page 47) Ranked: No
Basic Military Training No Core Rulebook (page 75) Knowledge (Forerunner) is now
a career skill for your character.
Big Guns No Android (page 47)
Cleared Chamber No WINTER CONTINGENCY FLIGHT SCHOOL
Codeslinger No Android (page 48) Tier: 2
Activation: Passive
Combat Medicine Yes Android (page 48)
Ranked: No
Contact the Domain No WINTER CONTINGENCY Gunnery and Piloting are now
career skills for your character.
Coordinated Assault Yes Core Rulebook (page 75)
Counteroffer No Core Rulebook (page 75) MAINFRAME WARRIOR
Daring Aviator Yes Core Rulebook (page 75) Tier: 2
Defensive Stance Yes Core Rulebook (page 75) Activation: Passive
Ranked: No
Defensive Sysops (Improved) No Core Rulebook (page 76) Hacking and Sysops are now
Determined Driver No Android (page 48) career skills for your character.

Dual Wielder No Core Rulebook (page 76)

MISSION SPECIALIST
Fan the Hammer No Core Rulebook (page 76) Tier: 2
Flight School No WINTER CONTINGENCY Activation: Passive
Ranked: Yes
Good Cop Yes Android (page 48) Choose one non-weapon, non-armor
Haughty Demeanor No Android (page 48) piece of gear (see SECTION 02:
EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES) per rank
Heightened Awareness No Core Rulebook (page 76) of Mission Specialist. When selecting
Inspiring Rhetoric No Core Rulebook (page 76) your equipment for a mission, reduce
the REQ value for that piece of gear
Inventor Yes Core Rulebook (page 76) by 1, to a minimum of 0. You cannot
Lucky Strike No Core Rulebook (page 76) choose the same piece of gear more
than once. This talent does not stack
Mainframe Warrior No WINTER CONTINGENCY
with the Iconic Weapon Talent.

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SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION

STEPPIN’ RAZOR TABLE 1-2: TALENTS FOR THE HALO SETTING

Tier: 2
Activation: Passive TALENT RANKED SOURCE
Ranked: No
Mission Specialist Yes WINTER CONTINGENCY
Brawl and Melee are now career
skills for your character. Nethunter No Android (page 48)
Parkour! No Android (page 49)
TOURIST
Probing Question No Android (page 49)
Tier: 2
Activation: Passive Quick Fix No Android (page 49)
Ranked: No Scathing Tirade No Core Rulebook (page 77)
Negotiation and Streetwise are now
career skills for your character. Side Step Yes Core Rulebook (page 77)
Steppin' Razor No WINTER CONTINGENCY
WAR COLLEGE
Tactical Focus No Android (page 49)
Tier: 2
Activation: Passive Tourist No WINTER CONTINGENCY
Ranked: No Two-Handed Stance No Android (page 49)
Leadership and Operating are now
career skills for your character. War College No WINTER CONTINGENCY
Way of Shadow No WINTER CONTINGENCY
WAY OF SHADOW Wheelman No WINTER CONTINGENCY
Tier: 2
TIER 3
Activation: Passive
Ranked: No Applied Research Yes Android (page 49)
Skulduggery and Stealth are now
Barrel Roll No Core Rulebook (page 77)
career skills for your character.
Body Guard Yes Android (page 49)
WHEELMAN Buffalo Strike Yes WINTER CONTINGENCY
Tier: 2 Distinctive Style No Core Rulebook (page 78)
Activation: Passive
Ranked: No Dodge Yes Core Rulebook (page 78)
Driving and Mechanics are now Dumb Luck No Android (page 49)
career skills for your character.
Eagle Eyes No Core Rulebook (page 78)

TIER 3 Field Commander No Core Rulebook (page 78)

Forgot to Count? No Core Rulebook (page 78)
BUFFALO STRIKE
Full Throttle No Core Rulebook (page 78)
Tier: 3
Activation: Maneuver Grenadier Yes Core Rulebook (page 78)
Ranked: Yes Hard-Boiled No Android (page 50)
When wielding a ranged weapon
as an improvised melee weapon, Heroic Will No Core Rulebook (page 79)
you may take a Buffalo Strike Hold It Steady No Android (page 50)
maneuver; suffer a number of
strain equal to your ranks in Iconic Weapon No WINTER CONTINGENCY

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 SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION

TABLE 1-2: TALENTS FOR THE HALO SETTING Buffalo Strike to increase the
weapon’s melee damage an equal
TALENT RANKED SOURCE number of times.

Inspiring Rhetoric (Improved) No Core Rulebook (page 78)

ICONIC WEAPON
Laugh It Off No Android (page 50) Tier: 3
Martial Weapons Master No Android (page 50) Activation: Passive
Ranked: No
Medpac Specialization Yes Core Rulebook (page 79) Choose one weapon with a REQ
Natural No Core Rulebook (page 79) rating of 3 or lower and one weapon
attachment with a REQ rating of 2
Overwatch Yes WINTER CONTINGENCY or lower. When you requisition the
Parry (Improved) No Core Rulebook (page 79) chosen weapon for a mission, it will
automatically be provided with the
Perfect Draw No WINTER CONTINGENCY chosen attachment at the weapon’s
Scathing Tirade (Improved) No Core Rulebook (page 79) base REQ rating. Once you have
selected a weapon and attachment
Silent Killer No WINTER CONTINGENCY for the Iconic Weapon talent, you
Snare No Android (page 50) may not choose another weapon
or attachment. This talent does
Sunday Driver No WINTER CONTINGENCY not stack with the Mission
Suppressing Fire Yes Android (page 50) Specialist Talent.

Takedown No Android (page 51)

TIER 4
Buffalo Strike (Improved)
Burn Through
Can't We Talk About This?
Deadeye
Defensive
Defensive Driving
Elementary
Enduring
Field Commander (Improved)
How Convenient!
Iconic Weapon (Improved)
Inspiring Rhetoric (Supreme)
Offensive Driving
One True Pairing
Overcharge
Overwatch (Improved)
OVERWATCH
Tier: 3
No WINTER CONTINGENCY Activation: Active (Maneuver)
Ranked: Yes
No Android (page 51)
Once per round, as a maneuver,
No Core Rulebook (page 79) your character may suffer a number
of strain no greater than their ranks
No Core Rulebook (page 79)
in Overwatch to use this talent.
Yes Core Rulebook (page 80) Target one character or minion
group within your weapon’s range.
Yes Core Rulebook (page 80)
Until the end of your character’s
No Android (page 51) next turn, upgrade the difficulty of
all combat checks made by that
Yes Core Rulebook (page 80)
target a number of times equal to
No Core Rulebook (page 80) the strain suffered.
No Core Rulebook (page 80)
PERFECT DRAW
No WINTER CONTINGENCY
Tier: 3
No Core Rulebook (page 80) Activation: Active (Action)
No Android (page 51) Ranked: No
Once per encounter, suffer 2 strain
No WINTER CONTINGENCY to use the Perfect Draw action; you
No Core Rulebook (page 80) may draw and attack with a melee
weapon in the same action.
No WINTER CONTINGENCY

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SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION

SILENT KILLER TABLE 1-2: TALENTS FOR THE HALO SETTING

Tier: 3
Activation: Active (Incidental) TALENT RANKED SOURCE
Ranked: No
Parkour! (Improved) No Android (page 51)
When using a silent weapon,
meaning one that makes no noise Quartermaster's Pet No WINTER CONTINGENCY
or is equipped with a suppressor,
Quick-Witted No Android (page 51)
or when using bare hands to
silently neutralize a target, your Scathing Tirade (Supreme) No Core Rulebook (page 81)
character may suffer 3 strain to
Scoreboard! No WINTER CONTINGENCY
reduce the critical rating of the
weapon by 1, to a minimum of 1. Silent Killer (Improved) No WINTER CONTINGENCY
Steady Aim Yes WINTER CONTINGENCY
SUNDAY DRIVER
TIER 5
Tier: 3
Activation: Active (Incidental) Dedication Yes Core Rulebook (page 81)
Ranked: No Drone Master No Android (page 52)
When a vehicle you are driving,
piloting, or operating suffers a Folks Need Heroes No WINTER CONTINGENCY
collision, make an out-of-turn Ghost in the Machine No Android (page 52)
incidental. Suffer 3 personal
strain to reduce a major collision Hyper-Lethal Vector No WINTER CONTINGENCY
to a minor collision, or to ignore Iconic Weapon (Supreme) No WINTER CONTINGENCY
a minor collision.
Indomitable No Core Rulebook (page 81)

TIER 4 Killionaire No WINTER CONTINGENCY

Master No Core Rulebook (page 81)
BUFFALO STRIKE (IMPROVED)
Overcharge (Improved) No Core Rulebook (page 81)
Tier: 4
Activation: Passive Perfect Draw (Improved) No WINTER CONTINGENCY
Ranked: No Ruinous Repartee No Core Rulebook (page 81)
Requires the Buffalo Strike Talent.
When suffering strain as a result Web of Knowledge No Android (page 52)
of a Buffalo Strike maneuver, you
may choose whether to use that
strain to increase the weapon’s
melee damage as normal or AND ALL THE REST.
decrease its critical rating by 1,
Character creation encompasses more than background,
to a minimum of 1.
archetype, and career, as described in the Genesys Core
Rulebook. However, we do not have any specific guidance
ICONIC WEAPON (IMPROVED) for other steps such as motivation. The Genesys rules are
Tier: 4 comprehensive and can be easily used without any alterations
Activation: Passive or additions. We simply suggest that you consider the setting
Ranked: No and your character, including how their specific background,
Requires the Iconic Weapon Talent. archetype, and career might affect everything else.
You can choose one weapon with
a REQ rating of 4 or lower and

3 0 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0


one weapon attachment with a
REQ rating of 3 or lower as your
Iconic Weapon. If you select a
different weapon and/or weapon
attachment from your original
Iconic Weapon, the new weapon
and/or attachment becomes your
Iconic Weapon.
ONE TRUE PAIRING
Tier: 4
Activation: Incidental
Ranked: No
AIs only.
When connected to an integrated
system such as a vessel or
MJOLNIR armor, as an incidental,
you may forego taking one of your
maneuvers. By doing so, until the
start of your next turn, you grant
one operator of that system an
extra free maneuver on their turn.
They still may not make more
than two maneuvers per turn.
OVERWATCH (IMPROVED)
Tier: 4
Activation: Passive
Ranked: No
Requires the Overwatch Talent.
When using the Overwatch Talent,
you may select a number of
targets (or minion groups) equal
to your ranks in Overwatch to
affect. All targets must be within
your weapon’s range.
QUARTERMASTER’S PET
Tier: 4
Activation: Active (Incidental)
Ranked: No
When requisitioning equipment
before a mission, you may spend a
Story Point to count your
own REQ as being one higher
for this mission.
SCOREBOARD!
Tier: 4
Activation: Passive
Ranked: No
If you spend a maneuver to aim
for a specific part of the target
or opponent (adding 󲊸󲊸 to
the check) you may count your
weapon’s critical rating as 1
lower, to a minimum of 1.
SILENT KILLER (IMPROVED)
Tier: 4
Activation: Passive
Ranked: No
Requires the Silent Killer Talent.
When using the Silent Killer
Talent on a target that has not
acted yet in an encounter, your
character may suffer only 1
strain to activate Silent Killer.
STEADY AIM
Tier: 4
Activation: Passive
Ranked: Yes
Remove 󲊸 per rank of Steady
Aim from combat checks when
imposed by the Inaccurate
weapon quality.
TIER 5
FOLKS NEED HEROES
Tier: 5
Activation: Maneuver
Ranked: No
Once per session, when making
a skill check, take the Folks
Need Heroes maneuver to add
a number of 󲊳 or 󲊴 (player’s
choice) to the results equal to
the number of Story Points in
the player pool.
WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 31
SECTION 01. CHARACTER CREATION
HYPER-LETHAL VECTOR
Tier: 5
Activation: Action
Ranked: No
Once per session as an action,
spend 1 Story Point and make a
Hard (󲊷󲊷󲊷) Perception check.
If successful, for the next 3 rounds
you may spend 1 maneuver to
add 1 automatic 󲊵 to your next
combat check made in that turn.
ICONIC WEAPON (SUPREME)
Tier: 5
Activation: Passive
Ranked: No
Requires the Iconic Weapon
Talent. You may select a second
weapon and weapon attachment
as an Iconic Weapon, or you may
add a second weapon attachment
to your original Iconic Weapon.
Chosen weapons and weapon
attachments must follow the
same requirements as your
previous Iconic Weapon.
KILLIONAIRE
Tier: 5
Activation: Active (Maneuver)
Ranked: No
Perform the Killionaire maneuver;
ignore the difficulty increase
required for Auto-fire on your
attacks this turn.
PERFECT DRAW (IMPROVED)
Tier: 5
Activation: Passive
Ranked: No
Requires the Perfect Draw Talent.
When performing the Perfect
Draw action, you lower the
weapon’s critical rating by 1,
to a minimum of 1.
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
The UNSC depends on its industrial base to produce
its arsenal of weapons, armor, equipment, and
vehicles. Mass production techniques like standard
parts make this possible across the hundreds of
colonies comprising human space. Skunkworks and
testing facilities are constantly looking for the magic
bullet, the new technology or innovation that will
halt the Covenant’s inexorable advance. As world
after world falls, production may slow, but it will
always continue. The military insists on uniformity in
appearance and behavior, allowing soldiers to quickly
familiarize themselves with new equipment.
You will notice that there are no prices or rarities
listed for the equipment below. Personnel are not
generally asked to purchase their own supplies.
Instead, they requisition the arms and gear they need
for their mission, and then return what they borrowed
to the quartermaster once their mission is complete.
For more information on this is handled in the game,
see the “Requisition System” section below.
Requisition (REQ) System
REQUISITIONING WEAPONS & GEAR
Squads and teams will need to requisition their
equipment from the quartermaster prior to going
out on a mission, and the way they do this is through
the Requisition (REQ) system. The REQ system allows
a player to choose their character’s equipment by
selecting weapons and gear from this chapter
with a combined REQ value not to exceed their
REQ threshold.
Mission-critical items, meaning equipment
and gear required to complete the mission’s
objectives, generally do not count against a
character’s REQ threshold.
Doing so means characters can change their
loadouts based on a mission’s specific parameters,
as well as request special items if they are needed.
However, all items are expected to be returned to
the quartermaster—with dire consequences if they
fail to do so.
3 2 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
REQUISITIONING ARMOR
In most cases, an individual’s armor is decided
by their role and is not something they need to
requisition. Most combat positions will be given
infantry armor, while non-combat positions use their
duty uniforms. Special forces tend to wear some
version of ODST armor in the field, though for unique
mission requirements they may be issued SPI armor.
MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor, however,
is reserved for Spartans.
Should the players request special consideration
based on their mission parameters, the GM should
make the decision based on their needs rather than
the REQ system.
REQUISITION & ENCUMBRANCE
Though similar, REQ and Encumbrance (ENC)
are two separate statistics to be tracked. While
REQ determines which items a character can
requisition, ENC determines how many items a
character can carry.
Neither REQ nor ENC interferes with each other.
This means that a character cannot requisition more
equipment than they can carry without incurring the
normal penalties for being over-encumbered, nor can
they requisition equipment greater than their REQ
threshold just because they have not reached their
ENC threshold.
REQ RATING & THRESHOLD
Every character has a REQ rating determined by their
experience level in the game. Their REQ threshold
is equal to 5 plus their REQ rating. All characters
begin the game with a REQ rating of 1. There is no
maximum REQ threshold.
While this is an individual rating, it is very likely
that an entire team will find themselves with equal
or similar REQ ratings as the campaign wears on.
Opportunities to increase or decrease REQ rating (see
below) tend to happen to the group as a whole. The
GM is also encouraged to provide REQ rewards on a
team level, rather than individually.

INCREASING REQ RATING
There are several ways for a character to increase
their REQ rating.
Completing Missions
The most obvious way to increase one’s REQ is to
successfully complete missions. For each mission
completed, the GM should award each participating
character +1 REQ rating. Completing particularly
difficult missions may be worthy of adding +2 to the
character’s REQ rating.
Getting Promoted
Any promotion in rank should also add +1 to a
character’s REQ rating. Note that this should not be
applied retroactively if the character starts the game
at an elevated rank.
Turning In Captured Equipment
If the character succeeded in acquiring rare or
valuable enemy equipment in the field, turning it over
to the quartermaster should (in most cases) result in
the character gaining +1 to their REQ rating.
Spending Experience
Any character who wishes to increase their REQ
rating may spend 20 XP per additional rank. This
may be explained as the character parlaying
their knowledge and participation into additional
consideration from the quartermaster.
DECREASING REQ RATING
On rare occasions, the character may find their REQ
rating being reduced. Reasons may include demotion
or disciplinary action, but GMs are cautioned not
to decrease a character’s REQ rating lightly. Most
personnel, even if they are troubled souls, still
deserve access to the equipment they have earned
during their time in the service.
However, should a GM decide that decreasing
a character’s REQ rating is required, the decrease
amount should be proportional to the offense, though
never so much that it would be impossible for the
character to climb their way back up. It also cannot
be reduced below 1. In addition, decreasing the REQ
rating of an entire squad should only happen in the
event of group disciplinary action.
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
PERSONAL KIT
Most soldiers, particularly those in specialist roles,
may find themselves acquiring items and gear beyond
the normal process of requisitioning. Referred to
as “personal kit,” these items do not count towards
the character’s REQ threshold when equipping
themselves for a mission. They still, however, count
towards the character’s total encumbrance threshold.
As WINTER CONTINGENCY does not account for
money or rarity, how the character acquires these
items is left to the player and the GM to decide.
Perhaps the item in question was a gift from a
commanding officer, delivered in a care package, or
traded to the character for a favor or another item
they possessed. Such personal kit could also be
rewarded at the end of a particularly difficult mission
or campaign. Small items might be acquired through
the use of Story Points.
It should be noted that a character likely has
a stash of personal kit—such as civilian clothing,
keepsakes and mementos, books and journals, and
certain contraband items—that they would have
access to while on base, aboard ship, or at home. No
particular check is required to determine if they have
these things, though a player wanting to retroactively
remember to bring one of these items on a mission
would have to spend a Story Point in order to do so.
Most personal kit would not include weapons
or armor, as the rules for living on-base or aboard-
ship precludes such things. However, leeway may
be afforded for certain individuals, such as those in
special forces, and these rules do not apply to anyone
living off-base.
RETURNING REQUISITIONED
EQUIPMENT
Any equipment that was requisitioned from the
quartermaster is expected to be returned at the end
of the mission, and in proper working order. The
process of checking the equipment is usually handled
by the quartermaster and their staff, and soldiers
returning from the field typically are not released
until the process is complete.
Maintaining a good working relationship with
the quartermaster is essential to happy living as a
soldier. Friendly quartermasters may be willing to
part with particularly rare or delicate equipment,
while hostile quartermasters are known to make a
WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 33
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
soldier’s life miserable with redundant equipment
checks and belligerent insistence on having the
proper paperwork. How a quartermaster acts
towards you and your squad depends on how you
treat them and their staff, as well as how well you
treat their equipment in the field.
DAMAGED EQUIPMENT
Military life is rarely so sedate and immaculate that
equipment can be returned in flawless condition,
especially when it is issued to soldiers in combat.
Small issues such as minor damage or jammed
weapons can be dealt with quickly and easily,
incurring no penalty beyond grousing. Moderate
damage may result with the individual being put
on notice and possibly having their access to such
equipment restricted.
While major damage or loss may sometimes
be unavoidable, repeated instances will be noted
and likely become a formal complaint to a
commanding officer. If it becomes a problem, the
character responsible may find themselves with a
temporary reduction in their REQ rating for a set
number of missions.
FOUND & CAPTURED EQUIPMENT
While in the field, soldiers may find the opportunity to
acquire enemy equipment. In fact, ONI has a standing
order to recover any and all Covenant equipment for
study whenever possible. Doing so and giving the
equipment to the quartermaster to be catalogued
and passed on to the appropriate authority may
result in some perks: common equipment may yield a
temporary boost to one’s REQ rating, while acquiring
rare or particularly valuable equipment could make
that boost permanent.
This does not extend to items or equipment
that was a mission objective. Such items must be
turned over to the appropriate authority directly,
such as a commanding officer, rather than be given
to the quartermaster.
FAILING TO RETURN EQUIPMENT
The greatest sin, for quartermasters, is not returning
equipment that was requisitioned. This does not
refer to equipment that was lost or destroyed over
the course of a mission—there are other protocols
for that—but it refers to the deliberate theft of gear
3 4 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
from the armory. Virtually all quartermasters take
such actions seriously and file regular reports with
the base or ship commander. Not returning your
equipment could result in an investigation and
disciplinary action, up to and including court martial,
as well as a reduction in REQ rating.
AIs AND REQ
As they have no physical bodies and thus
cannot carry equipment, let alone operate
it, AIs have a special relationship to REQ:
rather than using it to requisition weapons
or gear, an AI can use REQ to stock up on IC
and IC Breakers, as described in the “Code
Packages” section later in this chapter. AI
characters calculate their REQ rating using
the same method above.
While humans require special hardware
to participate in network encounters that
limits the number of code packages they can
carry, AIs exist entirely on networks and
possess advanced architectures that can
incorporate these packages into themselves
without becoming overburdened. AI
characters have no limits on how many
pieces of ice or icebreakers they can have,
except for the limit of their REQ threshold.
In addition, when an AI incorporates a
code package, they are not simply gaining
a piece of ice or an icebreaker; they are
absorbing the knowledge required to
build and deploy that code at will. If an AI
character requisitions a code package, it
cannot be lost—though it can be damaged
or destroyed by 󲊲 results, which affect
their operation as normal. (See “Item
Maintenance” on page 89 of the Genesys
Core Rulebook.)
Finally, it might not make sense that
an AI would “return” these code packages
after a mission, but instead think of them
as seeking self-optimization. Removing
and reacquiring a code package could be
seen as updating the requisite software and
foregoing one code package for another as a
way of decluttering their own architecture.

PLAYING WITHOUT REQ
It is entirely possible that the GM and/or players may
find the REQ system to be too restrictive or unwieldy
to use in their game. That is fine: while intended to
simulate the need to be judicious when requesting
equipment and assigning mission roles, it is not
necessary for the game. Instead, GMs are encouraged
to use common sense and consider narrative value
when allowing players to choose their weapons and
equipment before a mission.
New Item Qualities
In addition to the standard item qualities listed
in Chapter 5 of the Genesys Core Rulebook, the
following qualities may be found in the description
of the equipment.
ARMOR QUALITIES
ACTIVE CAMO
Armor with the Active Camouflage quality can
bend light around the wearer, making them
essentially invisible to the naked eye except for
a slight blur when they move. When activated, it
upgrades the difficulty of all checks made to detect
the wearer, as well as upgrades any Stealth check
the wearer makes.
POWERED
Armor with the Powered quality adds 󲊸 to all Brawn
and Agility checks (except Resilience) while worn and
can only be worn by individuals with the “Augmented”
ability. Any attempt by a non-augmented character
to wear Powered armor will result in severe bodily
injury. For every attempt by a non-augmented
character to use Powered armor, automatically assign
the Critical Injury “At the Brink;” for every subsequent
round, advance to the next critical injury.
If armor with the Powered quality loses power or
otherwise ceases to function, its encumbrance value
immediately increases to 12 and the wearer loses all
benefits of the armor, including vision enhancements,
attachments to the armor, and any increases to their
characteristics (including the additional soak from the
higher Brawn).
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
SHIELDED
Armor with the Shielded quality possesses energy
shields. In combat, energy shields provide extra soak
equal to the armor’s Shielded rating and prevent
the wearer from suffering critical injuries. They also
ignore the effects of the weapon qualities Pierce,
Breach, and Stun Damage. On a successful combat
skill check, an opponent may spend 󲊵 or a number
of 󲊴 equal to their weapon’s critical rating to remove
the Shielded quality from their target until the end of
the encounter.
Once per encounter, players may spend a Story
Point to instantly recharge their character's shields.
WEAPON QUALITIES
JAMMED
Not a standard weapon quality, as weapons of all
kinds can jam on the battlefield for a variety of
reasons. Sometimes it is because of the environment,
from sand or mud, and sometimes from operational
issues. Jamming for reasons related to upkeep are
rare in the military, thanks to fastidious maintenance
practices, but they do sometimes happen. Unless
otherwise stated or possessing the Plasma quality,
any weapon can jam on 󲊱󲊱󲊱󲊱 or 󲊲. Jammed
weapons will not fire until the jam is cleared, which
requires an action.
OVERCHARGE
Weapons with the Overcharge quality can be charged
up for devastating effect. The wielder may perform
an Overcharge maneuver; the weapon’s base damage
increases by 2 and its critical rating decreases by
1, to a minimum of 1. Overcharge may be held for
three turns, and its effects stack. The weapon must
vent and cannot be used in the following round after
it is fired; if the combat check generates 󲊱󲊱󲊱,
the weapon becomes fused and cannot be fired
again. However, if the weapon is not fired by the
end of the user’s third turn, the weapon detonates,
dealing its base damage plus the Overcharge bonus
damage to the user and anyone at Engaged range.
PLASMA
Weapons with the Plasma quality do not really use
plasma, but instead use something more arcane and
WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 35
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
terrible. Manufactured according to strict, mystical
protocols, these weapons cannot be reloaded or
recharged without special equipment, and they
cannot jam. They do not run out of ammunition on
the first 󲊲 result. However, 󲊱󲊱󲊱 or 󲊲 may be
spent to cause them to overheat, and they must
spend the next round cooling before being fired
again. They can still run out of ammo on a
second 󲊲 result and cannot be reloaded.
Weapons
RANGED WEAPONS
ASSAULT RIFLE
The mainline infantry weapon of the UNSC since
its inception, the assault rifle represents a highly
versatile infantry support weapon system. Its
adoption across the various branches of the military
is universal and extends even to law enforcement
and private security. The MA series of assault rifle is,
in fact, the most popular weapon system in human
history, with many veterans singing its praises as an
uncomplicated, sturdy weapon.
The ruggedness of an assault rifle is thanks in
part to its sturdy construction and tried-and-true
operation. Assault rifles can only jam on a 󲊲 result.
BATTLE RIFLE
Battle rifles were introduced to the UNSC Armed
Forces in 2525, supplanting the venerable DMR in all
services except for the Army. Modular in virtually all
respects, the battle rifle can serve any role on the
battlefield. The most common configuration includes
a scope to improve accuracy. It fires in a three-
round-burst pattern, which proved highly effective
against Covenant targets by reliably penetrating their
infantry’s energy shielding with rapid impacts.
DESIGNATED MARKSMAN RIFLE
When it comes to the needs of sharpshooters, few
infantry weapons in the UNSC’s arsenal are as
respected as the designated marksman rifle (DMR).
Though it was eventually supplanted in popularity
among infantry and security forces by the BR-series
battle rifle, UNSC snipers and squad marksmen
3 6 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
accept no substitutes: the DMR is accurate, high-
powered, and when paired with a steady trigger
finger, devastatingly reliable in the heat of battle.
Due to its precision nature, battlefield
maintenance of the DMR is notably tricky. Add 󲊸
to any attempts to service or repair the weapon
in the field.
GRENADE LAUNCHER
Grenade launchers are the primary means to lob
individual grenades over greater distances than
the arm can manage, favored by assault forces of
all stripes. The technology has remained largely
unchanged since it was first created in the 20th
century: it is made up of a breech-loaded barrel with
propellant to launch explosives along a parabolic arc.
Its simplicity can be beguiling to its wielder, leading
to the nickname “pro-pipe” for a generally harsh
learning curve on placement.
The stats as presented in Table 2-1: UNSC
Weapons represent a grenade launcher armed with a
standard frag grenade. All UNSC grenades are built
to standard dimensions, allowing them to be loaded
into grenade launchers. If loaded with a different
type of grenade, replace the damage, critical, and
weapon qualities with the selected grenade’s values.
Grenades not produced by the UNSC cannot be fired
with a grenade launcher.
HEAVY MACHINE GUN (HMG)
Heavy machine guns offer a superior level of fire
support in combat, but their size and weight usually
mean they are crew-operated, with at least two
soldiers required to set up and fire the weapon.
However, HMGs may be mounted on turrets to make
operation simpler, requiring only a single soldier to
service the weapon. Reports abound of some soldiers
managing the weight to carry and fire an HMG at the
same time, but the only confirmed cases so far have
been Spartans.
When transporting an HMG, it takes one round to
set the weapon up as a turret using a built-in tripod.
While turreted, the HMG does not count as having the
Cumbersome 4 quality. HMGs come standard with
high-capacity magazines, meaning they cannot run
out of ammo on the first 󲊲 result.

SQUAD AUTOMATIC WEAPON (SAW)
The squad automatic weapon (SAW), also known as
a light machine gun, has been a primary weapon in
combat units for centuries. They can maintain the
kind of sustained and suppressive fire that HMGs can,
but they are also mobile, able to be effectively carried
and wielded by a single soldier. SAWs come standard
with high-capacity magazines, meaning they cannot
run out of ammo on the first 󲊲 result.
SHOTGUN
Tactically speaking, shotguns are most desirable in
close quarters, be it an urban environment or aboard
ship. In these conditions, many soldiers prefer to use
ammunition loaded with buckshot, as it can increase
the effective area and has a lower penetration of
surfaces, such as a ship’s hull. However, shotguns
remain popular with various units—particularly the
DTM-series—whether or not they are deployed in
close quarters and can be just as effective when
outfitted with slugs.
When requisitioning a shotgun, you may opt
for slugs instead of buckshot rounds. If you do,
change the shotgun’s range to Medium and remove
the Blast quality.
SIDEARM
Simple and uncomplicated, virtually every soldier has
a soft spot for their sidearm. The UNSC’s venerable
M6 Personal Defense Weapon System series is
prized by its service members, law enforcement,
and private collectors alike for its rugged, time-
tested design. Soldiers, particularly officers and
special forces operators, are known to make minor
cosmetic changes to their sidearms. While these
personalizations are against regulations, most
commanding officers look the other way, and some
quartermasters take great pains to reunite a soldier
with their preferred sidearm.
If you do not requisition any weapon besides your
sidearm, you may treat the sidearm as having a REQ
value of 0.
SUBMACHINE GUN (SMG)
The UNSC’s current standard for submachine guns,
the M7, was originally issued exclusively to vehicle
crews. However, during the Insurrection, SMGs saw
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
widespread adoption across all branches and outfits.
Its high rate of fire makes it effective in most infantry
roles, while special forces prize it for its compact
size and lightweight construction. Despite certain
propaganda images, an SMG’s severe recoil makes
wielding one in each hand tactically inadvisable and
a safety risk.
Most SMGs in use by the military utilize
caseless rounds and therefore cannot gain the
Jammed quality.
SNIPER RIFLE
Sniper rifles are more than just rifles with scopes
on them: they are crew-served weapons platforms,
devastating in the hands of a good sniper-spotter
team. The SRS99 series has been in service in the
UNSC for almost a century, first in the Army before
being adopted later by the Marines. These weapons
come with an infrared scope as standard, which
can remove 󲊸 from a Perception or combat check
imposed by darkness or poor visibility caused by
conditions like smoke.
SPARTAN LASER
Developed alongside the GUNGNIR supplemental
armor system for MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor,
so-called Spartan lasers are UNSC-produced directed
energy weapons. Powered by industrial batteries,
these weapons require a charging period before firing
and can only be fired four times before the battery
is depleted. Batteries must be replaced at special
munitions facilities. Despite this limitation, Spartan
lasers are both costly and highly valued, as they are
devastating to both infantry and heavy armor.
MELEE & BRAWL WEAPONS
COMBAT KNIFE
Few things have changed so little over millennia of
warfare than the combat knife. These are standard
issue to all frontline personnel and generally made
available to all soldiers. Most UNSC combat knives
can be affixed to most UNSC rifles to act as a bayonet
(GM’s discretion), adding +1 damage and Defensive
1 to the knife’s profile, but adding Inaccurate 1 to the
ranged weapon’s profile while the knife is attached.
WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 37
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

TABLE 2-1: UNSC WEAPONS * indicates special rules; see detailed description for more information.

NAME SKILL DAM CRIT RANGE ENC REQ HP SPECIAL

RANGED WEAPONS
Assault Rifle Ranged (Heavy) 7 3 Medium 3 2 3 Auto-fire
Battle Rifle Ranged (Heavy) 6 3 Long 3 2 2 Accurate 1, Linked 2
DMR Ranged (Heavy) 8 3 Long 4 2 3 Accurate 1
Blast 6, Inaccurate 1,
Grenade Launcher Ranged (Heavy) 8 4 Medium 3 3 1
Limited Ammo 1*
Auto-fire, Cumbersome
HMG Gunnery 10 2 Long 6 4 4 4*, Pierce 2, Prepare 1*,
Vicious 2
SAW Ranged (Heavy) 9 3 Medium 5 4 2 Auto-fire
Blast 5*, Knockdown,
Shotgun Ranged (Heavy) 8 3 Short* 3 3 2
Vicious 2
Sidearm Ranged (Light) 6 3 Medium 1 1* 2
SMG Ranged (Light) 6 3 Short 1 1 1 Auto-fire, Inaccurate 1
Accurate 2, Pierce 3,
Sniper Rifle Ranged (Heavy) 10 3 Extreme 5 3 3
Vicious 2
Breach 2, Cumbersome
Spartan Laser Gunnery 15 3 Extreme 6 5 3 4, Limited Ammo 4,
Prepare 1
MELEE & BRAWL WEAPONS
Combat Knife Melee +1 3 Engaged 1 0 0
Stun Knuckles Brawl +1 4 Engaged 1 0 0 Disorient 1, Knockdown
Truncheon Melee +2 5 Engaged 2 1 0 Disorient 2

STUN KNUCKLES latest development in stick technology.” Their

Stun knuckles are a civilian self-defense weapon
made infamous by the 2511 and 2512 street fights
on Mamore. While generally frowned upon and not
standard in most armories, they have many battlefield
uses, particularly as a means to incapacitate a target
without the risk of killing them.
TRUNCHEON
If the concept of a combat knife is antiquated, then
the truncheon is positively prehistoric. Truncheons
are most commonly used by law enforcement and
military police units, frequently described as “the
construction is simple, composed of a metal or
plastic core with a composite sheath and a grip.
EXPLOSIVES
BREACHING CHARGE
A breaching charge is used to create an entry point
into a room, typically by blowing open a door or wall.
It is shaped deliberately to cause minimal damage to
anything but the surface to which it is attached. While
the standard breaching charge is generally effective
in most situations, they can be prepared to breach

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 SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

TABLE 2-1: UNSC WEAPONS * indicates special rules; see detailed description for more information.

NAME SKILL DAM CRIT RANGE ENC REQ HP SPECIAL

EXPLOSIVES
Breach 1, Limited
Breaching Charge Mechanics 12 2 Engaged 1 1 0
Ammo 1
Blast 2, Breach 4,
C-7 Explosive Mechanics 25 2 Engaged 1 2 0
Limited Ammo 1
Blast 6, Disorient 1, Ion,
Disruptor Grenade Ranged (Light) 6 3 Short 1 3 0
Limited Ammo 1
Flamethrower Ranged (Heavy) 8 2 Short 6 5 2 Burn 3, Blast 8
Blast 8, Disorient 3,
Flashbang Ranged (Light) 8 N/A Short 1 1 0 Limited Ammo 1, Stun
Damage
Blast 6, Limited Ammo
Frag Grenade Ranged (Light) 8 4 Short 1 1 0
1
Blast 10, Breach 2,
Cumbersome 5, Guided
Rocket Launcher Gunnery 20 3 Long 6 4 3
3*, Limited Ammo 2,
Prepare 1*
Blast 8, Breach 1,
Trip Mine Mechanics 20 2 Engaged 5 4 0
Limited Ammo 1

heavier armor, though doing so comes with DISRUPTOR GRENADE

an increased risk of getting caught in the blast.
When used as intended, placing a breaching
charge requires an Easy (󲊷) Mechanics check. For a
higher yield charge, increase the Breach quality by 1
and the Blast quality by 2, and increase the ENC by 1.
C-7 FOAMING EXPLOSIVE
One of the most destructive tools in the UNSC
arsenal, C-7 is an explosive compound. Each
unit comes in a canister that can also serve as a
detonator, able to be keyed for either a timed or
remote detonation, the latter if connected to a COM
unit. The compound is sprayed out of a nozzle,
turning from a liquid into a foaming, semi-solid
adhesive resin. It is a favorite of demolitionists and
saboteurs for its highly destructive nature, able to
level most infrastructure when applied to key points.
The X1 disruptor grenade is a recent addition to
the UNSC’s arsenal and is reverse engineered from
Covenant weaponry. When it detonates, it sends out
a pulse that can disrupt both UNSC and Covenant
technology, rendering anything from electronic lights
to plasma weapons inert. The effect goes further than
a simple electromagnetic pulse, but the mechanism
by which this is achieved is classified.
The effect lasts until the end of the encounter.
The GM will determine what technology is affected,
but disruptor grenades can generally interfere with
any technology more complicated than a mechanical
wristwatch. For example: most UNSC firearms can
still function, as they rely on a simple chemical
detonation to fire, but any electronic displays or
automatic targeting features will not be available.
Systems that are hardened against EMPs may
continue to work (such as the motor functions of
MJOLNIR armor) but more precise systems may be
rendered inert (such as personal energy shields).

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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
FLAMETHROWER
By design, most flamethrowers are intended to be
used to clear away obstacles quickly and efficiently in
a combat zone—thus the UNSC’s standard model, the
M7057 defoliant projector. They project a long stream
of chemically induced fire by igniting a stream of a
volatile, semi-adhesive liquid. While a flamethrower
can be used tactically to clear tunnels by eating up
oxygen, the Geneva Conventions of 2167 forbid the
direct use of a flamethrower on enemy combatants.
However, during the Covenant War, it has been widely
accepted that the Geneva Conventions only apply to
human beings.
FLASHBANG
Flashbangs are a non-lethal grenade intended to
blind and deafen the enemy. When deployed ahead
of a planned assault, they can give the attackers a
considerable advantage in the first few moments
of a firefight—provided said attackers did not catch
themselves in the flashbang’s effective range. While
not intended to be lethal, a flashbang still makes use
of a small detonation which could cause serious harm
if it goes off while touching a target.
FRAGMENTATION GRENADE
The standard-issue grenade of the UNSC is the
M9 High-Explosive Dual-Purpose grenade, though
other models exist. It is a small spherical device
with a priming trigger on top and a hard-metallic
casing with a frangible design; when the explosive
charge inside goes off, it creates a reliable pattern
of fragmentation as the case explodes. When the
priming button is pressed, the grenade will only
arm when it strikes a solid surface. This is a safety
feature to prevent accidental detonation, and it can
be overridden with a three-second-long press of the
button which arms the grenade immediately.
ROCKET LAUNCHER
The M41 Surface-to-Surface Rocket Medium Anti-
Vehicle/Anti-Assault Weapon is more commonly
known as the “SPNKR,” after the letter designation
on its visible tubes. It is considered to be the most
effective and prized heavy ordnance weapon in
history. The launching system holds two disposable
single-rocket tubes, which automatically cycle when
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one is fired, and has two firing modes. “Smart fire”
can lock on to vehicles after the weapon’s operator
has tracked it for a few seconds, while “dumb fire”
allows the rockets to be fired without requiring
a target lock. Its ability to fire two shots in rapid
succession is touted as its greatest advantage.
When wielding a rocket launcher, in order to
engage the Guided quality, the user must Prepare the
weapon by aiming it for 1 round without firing it. If the
user does not wish to engage the Guided quality, they
do not need to Prepare the weapon.
TRIP MINE
The TR/9 antipersonnel mine was originally
developed as an anti-vehicle land mine for use
against the Insurrection, though its trigger was
designed to be set off by something as light as a
footstep. During the Covenant War, the UNSC has
deployed it against the Covenant, as the hair trigger
can detect the ground effect of their anti-gravity
generators. It has also seen use against Hunters,
as their battleship-grade heavy armor requires
considerable firepower to breach.
When used as intended, placing a trip mine
requires an Easy (󲊷) Mechanics check. 󲊴󲊴 from
the check may be used to rig a remote detonator in
addition to the standard pressure trigger.
Armor
As noted above, soldiers in the UNSC do not
requisition clothing or armor, as these are determined
by mission requirements. All UNSC personnel should
assume they have access to a dress uniform, a duty
uniform, and durable clothing, as well as whatever
combat armor is called for by their assigned role.
Personnel still need to requisition special
attachments for their uniforms or armor, as discussed
in the Attachments section below.
CLOTHING
DRESS UNIFORM
Dress uniforms are required during formal events
and are designed to fit perfectly and maximize an
individual’s accomplishments. The wearer gains 󲊸
to all social skill checks made while wearing a dress

uniform. What it is not designed to do, however,
is to protect the wearer from any kind of danger.
DURABLE CLOTHING
Durable clothing generally refers to any clothing,
civilian or military, that provides even a modicum
of protection from the elements. While it will not
stand up to a direct hit, any barrier between a person
and danger is better than none. Coveralls, leather
jackets, and even work boots are enough to qualify
as durable clothing.
DUTY UNIFORM
When not in combat armor, most soldiers are
wearing a duty uniform. It features easily accessible
pockets, rank insignia, unit patches, and a stenciled
ID. The protection it offers is extremely basic and it
contains exactly zero dedicated armor plates, but it
is functional and better than nothing if things get hot.
Otherwise, it is necessary in order to be afforded the
respect deserved by your rank and unit.
EVA SUIT
EVA suits are generally lightweight, airtight, and
feature a large bubble helmet with attached work
lights for maximum visibility. Their air recyclers are
effective for ninety minutes, though the suit can be
fitted with additional external air tanks if more time
is required. An EVA suit is for use in vacuum or other
non-oxygen environments.
HAZARD SUIT
A hazard suit is intended for operating in a hostile
environment, generally one that features extreme
temperatures or a corrosive atmosphere. It is more
durable than an EVA suit, containing armor plating
to avoid accidental tears. Its air recycler is effective
for ninety minutes, though the suit can be fitted with
additional external air tanks if more time is required.
COMBAT ARMOR
BODY ARMOR
Though not appropriate for prolonged use on
a battlefield, body armor is still a vital method
of protection for many people, particularly law
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
enforcement or intelligence agents in urban
environments. Body armor consists of an armored
vest which provides both front and rear protection
from small arms fire, and it may be supplemented
with elbow and knee pads. The main value of body
armor is that it can be concealed beneath a jacket
or baggy sweater; if concealed, add 󲊸 to any
Perception checks made to determine if the target
is wearing armor.
INFANTRY ARMOR
Infantry armor, also referred to as Battle Dress
Uniform (BDU), is a soldier’s main line of defense
from harm on the battlefield. Made of interlocking
plates that prioritize the chest, groin, forearms,
shins, and feet, it also features a helmet outfitted
with a flashlight, ballistic visor, and built-in COM.
Pouches for ammunition and gear are placed across
the torso, allowing easy access during combat.
MJOLNIR POWERED ASSAULT ARMOR (GEN 1)
The MJOLNIR Project was developed simultaneously
alongside the SPARTAN-II Program as a modular
armor system that would enable its wearer to
perform superhuman feats. Though early trials
proved fatal to non-augmented personnel, Spartan
operators can use the suit to its full potential with
no risk to themselves. Mark IV was the first version
available to Spartans starting in 2525 and still
acts as a testbed for new components. However,
starting in 2551, Mark V is available to Spartans.
The updated version features two key improvements:
energy shielding reverse-engineered from Covenant
systems, and the ability to house a “smart” AI in the
armor without the need for external equipment.
MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor (GEN 1)
increases the wearer’s Brawn and Agility by 1 (this
bonus increases the wearer’s soak, but it is not
included in Table 2-2: UNSC Armor). The helmet
contains a fully functional COM suite. The suit’s
motion detector removes 󲊸󲊸 from any Perception,
Vigilance, or combat skill checks caused by darkness
or smoke, and the VISR suite adds 󲊸 to the user’s
Perception and Vigilance. Getting into or out of
MJOLNIR armor takes 20 minutes with technician
assistance, and 3 minutes in an automatic armor
assembly. MJOLNIR armor cannot be assembled or
disassembled without special tools.
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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

TABLE 2-2: UNSC ARMOR * indicates special rules; see detailed description for more information.

NAME DEF SOAK ENC HP ADDITIONAL QUALITIES

CLOTHING
Dress Uniform 0 0 1 0
Durable Clothing 0 +1 1 1
Duty Uniform 0 +1 1 1
EVA Suit 0 +1 3 3
Hazard Suit 1 +1 4 3
COMBAT ARMOR
Body Armor 1 +1 2 1
Infantry Armor 0 +2 2 2
MJOLNIR Armor (GEN 1) 2 +2 5 3 Powered, Shielded 3
ODST Armor 1 +2 3 3
SPI Armor 1 +2 3 2
SPI Headhunter Armor 1 +2 3 2 Active Camo*, Shielded 2*

ORBITAL DROP SHOCK TROOPER ARMOR alternative to astronomically expensive MJOLNIR

Issued exclusively to Orbital Drop Shock Troopers,
ODST armor functions much the same as standard
infantry body armor but with additional protection.
It fits over a skintight ballistic suit known as a
“body glove,” adding another layer of armor. The
helmet contains a fully functional COM suite and
is full-faced and can be sealed to the neck of the
body glove as a maneuver. The suit contains seven
minutes of breathable air, though an external air
tank can be affixed to the armor if needed. The suit’s
VISR suite adds 󲊸 to the user’s Perception and
Vigilance checks.
ODSTs tend to customize their armor with
personal markings and identifiers, as well as
attachments related to their mission specialty.
A variant of ODST armor, called RECON, is issued
to ONI officers in the field.
SEMI-POWERED INFILTRATION ARMOR
Though it was originally developed for use by the
ODSTs, semi-powered infiltration (SPI) armor is
issued almost exclusively to the SPARTAN-IIIs as an
armor. Featuring photoreactive “chameleon”
panels that allow the wearer to blend into their
surroundings, the Spartans of Alpha and Beta
Companies found it to be a versatile suit that met
virtually all of their needs in the field. When activated,
it adds 󲊸󲊸 to any check made to detect the wearer;
it also adds 󲊸󲊸 to any Stealth check made by
the wearer. The helmet contains a fully functional
COM suite and can be sealed to the neck of the
body glove as a maneuver. The suit contains seven
minutes of breathable air, though an external air
tank can be affixed to the armor if needed. The suit’s
motion detector removes 󲊸󲊸 from any Perception,
Vigilance, or combat skill checks caused by darkness
or smoke, and the VISR suite adds 󲊸 to the user’s
Perception and Vigilance.
The Headhunter variant is issued to two-person
Spartan teams that operate deep behind enemy lines.
Headhunter armor does not possess chameleon
panels. Instead, it features shielding and a prototype
active camouflage system adapted from Covenant
technology. It represents a marked improvement
over the baseline SPI armor’s chameleon panels.

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However, the power draw required is intense,
meaning the active camouflage and shielding
cannot be used at the same time. As a maneuver,
the wearer may switch between the two modes.
Active camouflage can only be active for three
minutes; it must then recharge for seven
minutes before it can be used again.
Gear
CARRYING & STORAGE
ARMORED MATRIX
An armored matrix serves a single purpose: the safe
and secure transport of an artificial intelligence. It
has magnetic mounting points that allow it to be
attached to combat armor, taking up 1 hard point.
The AI contained inside can communicate freely
through COMs; as an action, the armored matrix
can be hooked into an armor’s systems, allowing
the AI to “see” through any cameras or sensors the
armor contains.
AIs are considered high-value assets and as such
are not typically available for requisition. Instead,
they are assigned based on mission parameters, and
an armored matrix is given to the team accordingly.
FIELD BACKPACK
Popular among all field units from infantry grunts to
special forces, some version of the field backpack has
been in service since the year 1914. It contains ample
storage space for all manner of equipment, adding +5
to the wearer’s encumbrance. However, it is a bulky
item that can cause some issues with its size and is
typically not recommended if the mission’s purpose
requires stealth or speed.
TACTICAL VEST
Tactical vests provide additional easy-to-access
storage for soldiers, adding +3 to the wearer’s
encumbrance. Besides a literal vest, it can take
many forms, including added pouches on armor,
load-bearing straps, combat webbing, or some
combination thereof.
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
UTILITY BELT
An extra belt worn around the waist with armored
pouches that snap open, utility belts are a frequent
addition to any soldier’s kit. The extra space it
provides adds +2 to the wearer’s encumbrance.
CLANDESTINE OPERATIONS
DISGUISE KIT
The need for agents to disguise themselves in the
field has not changed over time, nor has the relatively
simple method of using wigs, contacts, and makeup.
Disguise kits contain these materials and more,
everything that is necessary for a person to appear
to be someone else, including some measures for
fooling biometric scans.
See the description of the disguise kit on page
96 of the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk campaign
setting for more information. Note that no disguise kit
can allow a human being to appear as a member of
the Covenant.
INFILTRATOR GOGGLES
While most UNSC armor systems can provide vision-
enhancing technology, the hardware required can
be rather conspicuous if the agent is trying to blend
in with a non-military population. Infiltrator goggles
can take the form of glasses or contact lenses that
provide similar functions, allowing agents to benefit
from enhanced vision while remaining covert.
See the description of the infiltrator goggles on
page 96 of the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk
campaign setting for more information.
LOCKBREAKER
Most lockbreaker devices in the UNSC are produced
by some of ONI’s top infiltration AIs and contain
powerful subroutines to circumvent all manner
of electronic locks. The device itself contains all
the accessories needed to interface with virtually
all civilian, military, and even Covenant electronic
locks, though they have proven ineffective against
holographic locks.
See the description of the lockbreaker on page
97 of the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk campaign
setting for more information.
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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
LOCKPICK SET
Even in an age of artificial intelligences, malicious
alien invaders, and widespread holographic
technology, sometimes the most formidable challenge
in your path is a metal deadbolt. In these moments,
when a firm boot is insufficient, the classic set of
lockpicking tools is your best choice.
See the description of the lockpick set on page
97 of the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk campaign
setting for more information.
LOCK-RELEASE GUN
For when you do not have time to finesse a lock
with picks, but a point-blank shotgun blast is out
of the question. A lock-release gun can instantly
defeat most normal mechanical locks, upgrading any
Skulduggery check made to pick a lock twice, though
it destroys the lock in the process.
SNAP-LOCKS
Snap-locks are a more discreet method of handcuffing
someone, maintaining a thin and rigid profile that
can be safely tucked in a pocket until needed. When
applied, they snap smoothly and immediately over
the target’s wrists before becoming rigid again.
See the description of the snap-locks on page
97 of the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk campaign
setting for more information.
COMMUNICATIONS &
ELECTRONIC WARFARE
DATA PAD
Perhaps the single most common piece of
electronic equipment in the entire UNSC, data
pads are handheld devices used by military and
civilians alike to record and store information,
including files, pictures, video, and audio. If
necessary, it can also serve as a COM device.
Centuries of progress with regards to tablet
computing has made them increasingly powerful,
which can also represent a security risk if they
are lost and captured by the enemy.
For the purposes of network encounters,
a data pad can have up to two icebreakers and
two pieces of ice active on its system at once.
A data pad is considered sufficient to engage in
network encounters.
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FIELD INFILTRATION COMPUTER SYSTEM
A favorite among ONI agents, the field infiltration
computer system (FICS) allows for rapid access to
hostile data networks. The FICS is outfitted with the
latest in AI-generated infiltration protocols, giving its
user the tools and power needed to complete Hacking
skill checks. However, the FICS pales in comparison
to an actual artificial intelligence, particularly the
“smart” variety, and so is normally used only when
accessing a network not directly controlled by an AI.
For the purposes of network encounters, a FICS
can have up to three icebreakers and three pieces of
ice active on its system at once. A FICS is considered
to be the right tool for the job when engaging in
network encounters.
PERSONAL CHATTER
Chatters are civilian devices worn on the wrist
that connect to discreet earbuds and a throat mic,
allowing convenient, hands-free communication. As
computers, they can keep calendars and store files.
They are considered woefully inadequate for just
about any military operation, given their short range
and virtually nonexistent encryption. However, many
assets who operate deep in Covenant space swear
by them, as the Covenant does not typically monitor
the UEG civilian band (C-band) of radio frequencies.
Where other equipment might attract attention,
sometimes a cheap, disposable chatter shaped like
a kitten will do the trick.
For the purposes of network encounters, a
personal chatter can have only one icebreaker
and one piece of ice active on its system at once.
A personal chatter is considered sufficient to
engage in network encounters.
SECURE LONG-RANGE COM TRANSCEIVER
SLR COM transceivers are high-powered devices
that can guarantee the most secure and stable
connection to most UNSC COM frequencies,
provided the user is in a linked star system. Power
requirements call for a dedicated power source,
which comes in the form of a backpack that can
either be worn with straps or secured via magnetic
mounting points. They are issued with strict
instructions to be destroyed in case of risk of falling
into enemy hands, as they might be used to intercept
UNSC communications, infiltrate COM networks,
or even track UNSC ships and personnel.
 SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

An SLR COM transceiver is not considered of network encounters, a TACPAD can have up to two
sufficient to engage in network encounters, but it icebreakers and two pieces of ice active on its system
may be used to facilitate them at a range greater at once. A TACPAD is considered sufficient to engage
than normally allowed based on the GM’s discretion. in network encounters.

TACPAD
A TACPAD is a handheld tactical database system
used to analyze and display combat information,
including maps and schematics. It is smaller than
a standard data pad and has an armored casing to
withstand the rigors of battle. It can also be attached
to the forearm of any standard UNSC armor system
for hands-free operation.
Generally used by battlefield leaders, there is a
limit of one TACPAD per squad due to high demand
and the risks inherent in losing one. For the purposes
MEDICAL
EMERGENCY MEDKIT
Small and easily carried in a pouch, emergency
medkits are standard issue for virtually all soldiers
in the field. They are intended to be used by the
soldier’s squad mates, in the event that the soldier
is wounded and unable to tend to themselves. In
addition to the equipment required to make a single
Medicine skill check, an emergency medkit contains
one biofoam injector.

TABLE 2-3: UNSC GEAR

NAME ENC REQ NAME ENC REQ
CARRYING & STORAGE MEDICAL
Armored Matrix 3 N/A Emergency Medkit 1 0
Field Backpack +5 1 Field Medkit 2 1
Tactical Vest +3 1 Biofoam Canister 0 1
Utility Belt +2 0 TOOLS & GENERAL GEAR
CLANDESTINE OPERATIONS Climbing Harness 2 1
Disguise Kit 4 3 Emergency Repair Patch 1 0
Infiltration Goggles 1 2 Extra Reload 1 0
Lockbreaker 1 1 Handheld Motion Tracker 1 1
Lockpick Set 1 1 Meals, Ready-to-Eat (3 Days) 0 1
Lock-Release Gun 2 2 Oxygen Bottle 2 1
Snap-Locks 0 0 Portable Toolkit 4 2
COMMUNICATIONS & ELECTRONIC WARFARE Respirator 1 1
Data Pad 1 1 Rope 1 1
Field Infiltration Computer System 1 1 Signal Flare 1 0
Personal Chatter 1 0 Target Designator 2 3
SLR COM Transceiver 3 1
TACPAD 0 1

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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
FIELD MEDKIT
A field medkit contains all the supplies required
to treat a squad, from disinfectants and morphine
syrettes to bandages and tourniquets. Using a field
medkit adds 󲊸 to Medicine skill checks. A field
medkit contains five individual biofoam injectors.
BIOFOAM CANISTER
Biofoam works as a painkiller, described in the
Genesys Core Rulebook on page 94. Biofoam is
not usually requisitioned separately and is instead
included in a soldier’s emergency medkit. However,
extra biofoam injectors may be given out depending
on the circumstances and the mission parameters.
Each biofoam canister requisitioned separately can
be assumed to have five uses.
TOOLS & GENERAL GEAR
CLIMBING HARNESS
A climbing harness is valuable to anyone who would
like to go up or come down a vertical surface. It is
generally made up of a belt containing two hundred
meters of microfilament rope and has a detachable
grapnel launcher that can either grip or adhere
magnetically to most surfaces.
See the description of the climbing harness on
page 101 of the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk
campaign setting for more information.
EMERGENCY REPAIR KIT
Things break easily on the battlefield, from man-
portable gear to critical systems on a starship, and
they often need to be fixed in a hurry without access
to proper facilities. An emergency repair kit can be
used to add 󲊸 to Mechanics skill checks.
EXTRA RELOAD
It’s always important to carry extra clips and
magazines for when your ranged weapon runs dry.
As a maneuver, you can use an extra reload to
reload your weapon if it runs out of ammunition.
Extra reloads cannot be used on weapons with
the Plasma quality.
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HANDHELD MOTION TRACKER
While Spartans and ODSTs benefit from motion
trackers built into their armor systems, the rest of the
UNSC has to get by with handheld units. These tend
to be less sophisticated, though they can differentiate
between UNSC IFF tags and everything else.
See the description of the portable motion sensor
on page 186 of the Genesys Core Rulebook for more
information.
MEALS, READY TO EAT
MREs are dehydrated, vacuum-packed meals that
come with a pouch of water and a packet of instant
coffee. They provide much-needed nutrition to
soldiers in the field who are too far deployed to enjoy
the comforts of a mess hall or mess tent. There are
a variety of flavors, most of which are universally
considered to be terrible.
It is generally assumed that your character
will carry enough MREs to last them until their next
planned resupply, whenever that may be, and so you
do not need to requisition MREs for that period of
time. (Or even track them on your character sheet.)
However, if you suspect your deployment may last
longer than has been decided in the briefing, you
may choose to requisition additional MREs. This will
require additional REQ points.
OXYGEN BOTTLE
An oxygen bottle is a tank of compressed oxygen
intended to supplement the air supply of any number
of suits. It can hold up to two hours of extra oxygen,
and universal connectors all but guarantee that it
can be used with any atmospherically sealable suit
or armor system.
Oxygen bottles are heavy, though they can
be carried one-handed with a handle; otherwise,
it requires two hands to hold. In addition, they
represent a significant explosion risk: if suitably
damaged, such as by armor-piercing ammunition
or a nearby explosion, oxygen bottles may explode
with the following profile: Damage 10; Critical 2;
Blast 6, Burn 4.
 SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

RESPIRATOR TABLE 2-4: UNSC INTRUSION

Though not rated for vacuum exposure, respirators COUNTERMEASURES
are easy to come by in all manner of locations. See
the description of the respirator on page 103 of the NAME STRENGTH REQ
Genesys Core Rulebook for more information.
BARRIER IC

ROPE Fire Wall 6 2

A length of synthetic carbon-fiber rope may seem Great Wall 6 3
like an antiquated solution to modern problems, but
Hadrian's Wall 8 4
sometimes it is just the right tool for the job.
Heimdall 1.0 7 5
SIGNAL FLARE Ice Wall 5 1
Contained in plastic tubes, signal flares are used to
SENTRY IC
mark an area with colored smoke. The significance of
different colors is typically decided during a mission Archer 5 4
briefing, though soldiers may “pop smoke” and tell a Hawk's Eye 4 3
dropship pilot or artillery officer the color to zero in
on a particular location. Janus 1.0 9 7
Sentinel 3 1
TARGET DESIGNATOR
Shinobi 3 2
A target designator is a hand-held device with a pistol
grip that can laze a target. Whether the attack comes CODE-GATE IC
from an artillery barrage, an air strike, or an orbital Authenticator 3 1
bombardment, using a target designator lowers the
difficulty of the Gunnery check required to hit the Enigma 3 1
target once, to a minimum of Easy (󲊷) difficulty. Pop-Up 2 0
This effect persists for as long as the user can keep
the target lazed. Syn 2.2 6 4
Tollbooth 3 1
Viktor 2.0 4 4
Code Packages
When UNSC operators are working in computer
For information on network encounters in
networks, the building blocks of their tools—whether
general, see page 125 of the Android: Shadow of the
they are attacking or defending a system—are code
Beanstalk sourcebook. For more details on networks
packages. These include intrusion countermeasures
and digital encounters in the HALO universe, see
(abbreviated “IC” and pronounced “ice”), as well as
page 88.
methods to slip past or eliminate such obstacles—
these are called “icebreakers.”
Requisitioning code packages works the same BARRIER IC
as other equipment, though non-AIs who requisition
either ice or icebreakers must have hardware able FIRE WALL
to support them. (See individual item descriptions
A fire wall works as a somewhat more robust ice
for more details.) Code packages are generally not
wall. It is prevalent in both military and civilian life
single-use: ice can be built and rebuilt using a single
due to its simple utility.
Sysops check for each instance, while icebreakers can
See the description of fire wall on page 133 of
be used multiple times unless they are neutralized by
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
certain kinds of ice.
more information.

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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
NEURAL INTERFACE
All UNSC personnel are outfitted with
a standard neural interface when they
are inducted. This mostly serves to help
locate personnel who have been captured
as well as identify them as friendly forces
on IFF systems.
However, more specialized versions
are available, including ones that allow
users to interface directly with computer
systems. These act the same as a brain
machine interface (BMI) described on
page 98 of the Android: Shadow of the
Beanstalk sourcebook.
An upgraded neural interface should
be available to any player who requests it.
A BMI requires only minor surgery to install.
GREAT WALL
Named after the historical Chinese artifact, Great
Walls are effective at blocking off multiple sub-
systems at once. However, it is disliked by security
experts for this very reason, as defeating it leaves all
those sub-systems open to intrusion.
See the description of Great Wall on page 133 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
HADRIAN’S WALL
Hadrian’s Wall is dynamic, able to be reinforced by
defensive operators as needed. This makes it popular
among both human and AI sysops.
See the description of Hadrian’s Wall on page 133
of the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook
for more information.
HEIMDALL 1.0
Heimdall is one of the most basic “dumb” AI
programs available, able to observe and adapt to
intruders in the system. Some hackers have learned
to take advantage of Heimdall’s intrinsic curiosity, but
every interaction makes Heimdall more familiar with
their hardware and capabilities.
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See the description of Heimdall 1.0 on page 133
of the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook
for more information.
ICE WALL
The most basic method for protecting a vulnerable
system, ice walls simply block a hacker from
accessing whatever it is protecting with no special
bells or whistles.
See the description of ice wall on page 134 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
SENTRY IC
ARCHER
A capable if simple sentry, Archer can target and
destroy an intruder’s icebreakers when they attempt
to infiltrate the system.
See the description of Archer on page 134 of the
Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
HAWK’S EYE
Originally developed by corporations as a data-
gathering tool, it was swiftly repurposed by the
government to trace hackers attempting to access
key systems.
See the description of Hawk’s Eye on page 134 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
JANUS 1.0
The origins of Janus are shrouded in mystery. It
is believed to be an ONI construct, developed by
“smart” AIs to protect some of the UNSC’s greatest
secrets. Not only does it monitor and protect systems,
it is also rumored to destroy any computer—or mind—
that draws its ire.
See the description of Janus 1.0 on page 134 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.

SENTINEL
Sentinels are very basic sentries found on virtually
every computer network in human space. The ones
used by the military—particularly the Navy—are
said to be slightly more effective than their civilian
counterparts, but this notion has been contested by
dozens of white-hat hackers over the years.
See the description of sentinels on page 134 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
SHINOBI
A variation on the standard sentinel design, Shinobi
both deflects attempted intrusions and retaliates,
flooding the offending vector with junk data and
viruses. Its level of autonomy suggests a “dumb”
AI’s sophistication, but this has been disproven in
multiple tests.
See the description of Shinobi on page 135 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
CODE-GATE IC
AUTHENTICATOR
Authenticator gates are standard defenses, checking
incoming users’ authorization against an established
list. They can be more easily overridden than barriers
by way of slowing down their access to those lists.
See the description of authenticators on page 135
of the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook
for more information.
ENIGMA
Enigma gates require users to overcome illogical
puzzles and loops them through redirect queries if
they do not have the correct authorization. While no
tougher than authenticator gates, Enigmas can waste
an intruder’s time seeking correct answers.
See the description of Enigma on page 135 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
POP-UP
Developed by network-based corporations centuries
ago, these ubiquitous and irritating gates are effective
at frequently spamming incoming connections.
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
See the description of pop-ups on page 135 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
SYN 2.2
Syn is a “dumb” AI and one of the most effective
code-gates available, seeing wide use throughout
government and municipal networks. Some military
sysops have a soft spot for him, but they admit he
lacks the hard edges required to ward off the kinds
of targeted attacks on their systems.
See the description of Syn 2.2 on page 135 of the
Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
TOLLBOOTH
Seen most often in the civilian world, tollbooth gates
require monetary compensation to bypass if the user
lacks the right credentials.
See the description of tollbooths on page 136 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
VIKTOR 2.0
Viktor is a “dumb” AI with teeth, able to not only
fend off would-be intruders but counterattack their
systems as well. Developed by the Navy, they insist
that Viktor’s responses are limited to non-lethal
measures, but there is growing evidence to the
contrary among hospitals and morgues.
See the description of Viktor 2.0 on page 136 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
IC BREAKERS
ATHENA
Athena is one of the most advanced “dumb” AIs
developed to crack open computer networks, able to
outwit code-gates and break down barriers. The only
downside is that her complexity prevents her from
being carried on most portable hardware.
See the description of fire wall on page 136 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
BATTERING RAM
Battering rams are brute-force programs, only able
to carry out straightforward barrage ping attacks
on barriers.
See the description of battering rams on
page 136 of the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk
sourcebook for more information.
CORRODER
Corroders have a unique quality in that they degrade
the strength of the barriers they are attempting to
break through.
See the description of corroders on page 136 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
CRYPSIS
A highly effective “dumb” AI intruder, Crypsis can
overcome any kind of IC with precise and methodical
strikes. Despite its comparatively slow speed, many
government and military agents are concerned by
its existence, as it appears to have been developed
independently by a single hacker.
See the description of Crypsis on page 137 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
FAERIE
Though efficient at distracting sentries using constant
spam attacks, Faerie can only be used once before
the network adapts to its presence.
See the description of Faerie on page 137 of the
Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
FEMME FATALE
Femme Fatale is a “dumb” AI created by a crime
syndicate to act as an upgraded version of Faerie.
While they succeeded, the result is a program
considered by many to be unpredictable, as it will
sometimes hinder a hacker rather than help them.
See the description of Femme Fatale on page 137
of the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook
for more information.
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GARROTE
The effectiveness of a garrote is not necessarily in its
power to eliminate sentries but is instead in its ability
to prevent them from alerting sysops.
See the description of garrotes on page 137 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
GORDIAN BLADE
First developed by a Navy “smart” AI to assist him in
dealing with logic gates, the Gordian Blade has since
seen adoption by a wide variety of hackers, from
corporate spies to white-hat AI intruders.
See the description of the Gordian Blade on
page 137 of the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk
sourcebook for more information.
REMORA
Remoras are aptly named programs that have no
ability to break barriers but can slip past sentries and
code-gates without being detected. While the risk is
high and potentially fatal for users, success means
getting in and out without any defenders noticing
their presence.
See the description of remoras on page 137 of
the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
SAGITTARIUS A*
In practice, Sagittarius A* is less of a “dumb” AI
and more of an AI killer. When used improperly—or
perhaps just recklessly—it can destroy not just the
IC on a system but the system itself. This can include
any “smart” AIs that call that system home.
See the description of Sagittarius A* on page 138
of the Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook
for more information.
TORCH
Torch is a potent tool for nullifying code-gates in a
given system, to the point that many hackers and
sysops suspect ONI had a part in its creation. Even
if it is true, no evidence has arisen to back up this
claim, and no one in ONI has ever come forward as
its creator.
See the description of Torch on page 138 of the
Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
 SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

TABLE 2-5: UNSC IC BREAKERS

NAME AFFECTS STRENGTH REQ
Athena Barriers, Code Gates 5 6
Battering Ram Barriers 6 4
Corroder Barriers 4 3
Crypsis Barriers, Code Gates, Sentries 3 4
Faerie Sentries 5 2
Femme Fatale Sentries 4 5
Garrote Sentries 2 1
Gordian Blade Code Gates 3 3
Remora Code Gates, Sentries 0 2
Sagittarius A* Barriers, Code Gates, Sentries 6 7
Torch Code Gates 9 8
Yog.0 Code Gates 1 5

YOG.0 See the description of deflective plating found

Yog.0 uses amassed data to bypass code-gates,
accessing a database filled with usernames and
passwords logged by hackers in their efforts. It
is simple but effective... as long as the code you
need is in the list somewhere.
See the description of Yog.0 on page 138 of the
Android: Shadow of the Beanstalk sourcebook for
more information.
Attachments
ARMOR ATTACHMENTS
DEFLECTIVE PLATING
All UNSC armor systems already incorporate
defensive measures to ensure their wearer’s
survival, but sometimes individuals take extra steps
to increase their survivability when in combat.
Deflective plates can also be applied to duty uniforms
and durable clothing in order to increase survivability
if the wearer is concerned about combat.
on page 209 of the Genesys Core Rulebook for more
information.
DROP SHIELD GENERATOR
Based on highly classified Forerunner artifacts
recovered by ONI, the drop shield generator allows
the user to deploy a domed energy shield around
them. It prevents high-speed projectiles such as
bullets, plasma, and thrown weapons from passing
through while allowing objects at comparatively
low speed to transition through the shield, such as
individuals who are walking or running, or vehicles.
The power draw required for the drop shield is
intense and can only be attached to systems that
already have shield capability, limiting its field use to
Spartans using MJOLNIR powered armor. High-energy
impacts can cause the drop shield to collapse early.
▪ Use With: Any MJOLNIR armor with the
Shielded quality.
▪ Modifiers: Once per encounter, as a maneuver,
the user may engage their drop shield. It projects
an energy bubble around the user out to engaged

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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

range, preventing enemies from hitting anyone TABLE 2-6: UNSC ATTACHMENTS
within the drop shield but not preventing anyone
from entering it. The drop shield lasts for three NAME HP REQ
rounds, collapsing at the end of the user’s turn.
The drop shield can be targeted by ranged ARMOR
attacks and counts as having a wound threshold Deflective Plating 1 1
of 30. In the event that the drop shield’s wound
threshold is exceeded, or it takes two Critical Drop Shield Generator 1 3
Injuries, the drop shield collapses immediately. Fiber-optic Probe 0 1
▪ Hardpoints: 1
Intimidating Visage 0 0

FIBER-OPTIC PROBE Motion Tracker 1 1

A small, wire-shaped device with a camera and pin- Network Infiltration Package 1 2
sized microphone on one end, fiber-optic probes are Thruster Pack 3 4
often used to peek around corners and under doors.
They are semi-rigid, able to be shaped to look around Reinforced Plating 2 4
obstacles without exposing its user to danger. Each Vacuum Sealed 1 0
probe is three meters long, and while they are issued
with independent monitors, all UNSC models can Visual Intelligence System,
1 2
connect directly with standard armor systems and Reconnaissance
relay images directly to an eyepiece or visor. WEAPONS
▪ Use With: Any UNSC armor system. Bipod Mount 1 1
▪ Modifiers: Allows the user to look around
Extended Barrel 2 2
obstacles and corners and through small spaces
at short range. Deploying or retracting the probe Firing Shield 1 2
is an incidental. High-Capacity Magazine 0 1
▪ Hardpoints: 0
Oracle Scope 1 2

INTIMIDATING VISAGE Suppressor 1 1

Customization of armor is typically frowned upon Tripod Mount 2 1

by the UNSC, as it has negative impacts on the Underslung Ordnance Launcher 2 3
uniformity—and therefore the camaraderie—of
soldiers on the line. In fact, among the regular
infantry and military police, anything but the most MOTION TRACKER
basic alterations to denote name, rank, and mission
Motion trackers are a unique type of sensor able to
role is forbidden. However, in the special forces,
detect movement out to a set range. They have the
particularly ODST, some latitude is granted for
ability to passively read UNSC friend-or-foe tags,
personalization and psyops purposes. It is also said
displaying identified UNSC personnel and vehicles as
that some Spartans paint or carve their already
yellow dots while displaying unidentified or hostile
imposing MJOLNIR armor to inflict maximum dread
movements in red. While this can cut down on
and fear among their enemies.
battlefield confusion and even help detect enemies
See the description of intimidating visage
with active camouflage, motion trackers cannot
found on page 209 of the Genesys Core Rulebook
identify individuals that are moving slowly, and
for more information.
they can be rendered less effective or neutralized in
environments with a lot of small movement, such as
dense jungles filled with wildlife.

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▪ Use With: Any UNSC combat armor.
▪ Modifiers: Removes 󲊸󲊸 from any Perception,
Vigilance, or combat skill checks caused by
darkness or smoke that the wearer makes.
▪ Hardpoints: 1
NETWORK INFILTRATION PACKAGE
Most UNSC armor systems contain a rudimentary
BIOS to run necessary programs and subroutines for
normal function, but this is insufficient for actively
accessing a network, let alone a hostile one. A
network infiltration package adds a more robust
operating system capable of running a sophisticated
set of applications allowing the user to attack or
defend computer networks. It includes a visual
interface, adding a visor or eyepiece if the armor
did not have one already.
▪ Use With: Any UNSC combat armor.
▪ Modifiers: For the purposes of network
encounters, a network infiltration package
can have up to six icebreakers and four pieces of
ice active on its system at once. It is considered
the right tool for the job when engaging in
network encounters.
▪ Hardpoints: 1
THRUSTER PACK
Thruster packs have been in use for as long as
humans have been operating outside of gravity
wells, but the arrival of war in space has seen many
changes. The UNSC’s jetpacks are armored units
intended for use in freefall combat operations, but
they remain highly effective even when used under
gravity, despite still using chemical propellants.
Some combat units, such as the ODSTs, specialize in
using jetpacks under a wide variety of conditions.
▪ Use With: Any UNSC combat armor.
▪ Modifiers: When activated as a maneuver, the
jetpack allows the user to fly using their Piloting
skill, with the following profile: Silhouette 1,
Speed 2, Handling -1. (In low-gravity or freefall,
Handling is 0.) A 󲊲 may be used to cause the
jetpack to run out of propellant.
▪ Hardpoints: 3
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
REINFORCED PLATING
Heavy armor already has a reputation for resilience
but adding reinforcement—a process sometimes
referred to as “up-armoring”—can increase the
armor’s integrity considerably. The materials needed
to craft such additional plating, as well as the labor
required to affix it, make this a rare benefit afforded
only to VIPs or assets that have proven to be worth
the effort.
See the description of reinforced plating
found on page 209 of the Genesys Core Rulebook
for more information.
VACUUM SEALED
As the UNSC Navy and Marines are expected to
conduct operations in hard vacuum, as well as on
planets that may feature a hostile atmosphere,
virtually every armor system is able to be modified to
seal in order to maintain pressure and atmosphere.
Several types come with this attachment standard;
see individual armor descriptions for details.
See the description of vacuum sealed found on
page 209 of the Genesys Core Rulebook for more
information. This attachment is assumed to provide a
hookup for supplemental oxygen.
VISUAL INTELLIGENCE SYSTEM, RECONNAISSANCE
The Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance
(VISR) was originally developed for special forces
teams dealing with entrenched insurrectionists,
taking advantage of its low-light capabilities to
facilitate daring nighttime raids. It later proved to
be extremely effective against the Covenant as well,
as it could sometimes detect and highlight visual
irregularities associated with active camouflage. It
has been widely adopted by ODST, ONI, and Spartans
in the field. Conventional infantry and military police
units have resisted making it standard issue: the
various features can clutter sightlines and distract
inexperienced soldiers at the worst moments, to say
nothing of the associated costs in adopting it.
▪ Use With: Any UNSC armor system that comes
equipped with a helmet.
▪ Modifiers: Adds 󲊸 to the user’s Perception
and Vigilance.
▪ Hardpoints: 1
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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
WEAPON ATTACHMENTS
BIPOD MOUNT
A favorite pick by snipers, bipod mounts grant
additional stability when firing unwieldy weapons.
Though it takes additional time to set up, the payoff is
usually worth it.
See the description of the bipod mount found
on page 207 of the Genesys Core Rulebook for
more information.
EXTENDED BARREL
While an extended barrel can boost the range of
certain weapons and is a popular modification among
sharpshooters, the UNSC generally frowns upon
requesting such an attachment. Most weapons are
already designed to operate at their peak range, and
extending the barrel threatens to make the weapon
overall less effective. However, the advantages of
such an attachment cannot be denied, and so most
armories are able to accommodate a request for an
extended barrel.
See the description of the extended barrel found
on page 207 of the Genesys Core Rulebook for
more information.
FIRING SHIELD
Some heavy infantry weapons, particularly crew-
operated weapons, are expected to be used while
taking direct fire from enemy positions and without
the benefit of cover. Frequently, these weapons can
be modified to add a shield plate to the front of the
weapon, allowing the crew some protection from
incoming fire while they operate the weapon. A firing
shield is essentially a steel plate that can absorb or
deflect attacks, keeping the user relatively safe and
free to do their job. This attachment is not effective
against attacks made with Brawl or Melee.
▪ Use With: Any UNSC Gunnery weapon.
▪ Modifiers: Add the Cumbersome 3 and Defensive
1 qualities to the weapon.
▪ Hardpoints: 1
HIGH-CAPACITY MAGAZINE
Whether it comes in the form of an extended
magazine, a drum, or an extra tank of fuel, most
UNSC ranged weapons can be fitted with higher
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capacities of ammunition. This cuts down on the time
a soldier spends reloading, potentially leaving them
free to respond to threats to their squad. However,
high-capacity magazines add noticeable bulk to the
weapon, both from the increased magazine size and
the weight of the extra ammunition, making them
harder to wield in general.
▪ Use With: Any UNSC ranged weapon that does
not have the Limited Ammo quality.
▪ Modifiers: Add 1 to the weapon’s Encumbrance.
The weapon cannot run out of ammo on the first
󲊲 result.
▪ Hardpoints: 0
ORACLE SCOPE
A favorite of snipers and sharpshooters, Oracle
scopes come in a variety of shapes to suit the needs
of any rifle. Each scope has high-quality lenses and
advanced software similar to that of an ODST’s VISR
suite, assisting the shooter in locating targets despite
reduced visibility, including smoke.
▪ Use With: Any UNSC rifle.
▪ Modifiers: Remove 󲊸󲊸 from Perception
and combat checks imposed by darkness or
poor visibility.
▪ Hardpoints: 1
SUPPRESSOR
Engaging in covert operations requires a certain
degree of discretion. Generally speaking, it is
recommended that personnel who are attempting
to carry out such an operation not use weapons, or
use weapons that do not make noise, such as a knife.
However, when required, most UNSC weapons can
be fitted with a suppressor. While it’s neither able nor
intended to completely mask the sound of gunfire,
it reduces the noise profile so that gunshots may go
unnoticed due to ambient sounds, or else is so quiet
that hostiles are unable to trace the location.
▪ Use With: This attachment can be used with any
Ranged (Light) or Ranged (Heavy) UNSC weapon,
except for heavy weapons such as machine guns
or explosive weapons like grenade launchers.
▪ Modifiers: Decrease the weapon’s base damage
by 1 and increase the weapon’s critical rating
by 1. Upgrade all checks made to detect weapons
 SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

fire or determine the direction of a shot made

using a weapon equipped with a suppressor. The
suppressor may be attached to or removed from
a weapon by spending a maneuver.
▪ Hardpoints: 1

TRIPOD MOUNT
Tripods are generally attached to heavy weapons,
giving them unsurpassed stability. A tripod is
recommended for any squad making use of
considerable firepower, in order to be as efficient
as possible.
See the description of the tripod mount
found on page 208 of the Genesys Core Rulebook
for more information.

UNDERSLUNG ORDNANCE LAUNCHER

Attached to the bottom rail of a rifle-sized weapon,
the underslung ordnance launcher can be configured
in the field to use a variety of ammunition: grenades,
shotgun slugs, even grappling hooks and pitons. The
smooth bore barrel limits the range, and after each
shot it must be reloaded via the breech, but advances
in lightweight materials and ammo generally keep the
weapon from becoming barrel-heavy.
▪ Use With: Any UNSC rifle-sized Ranged
(Heavy) weapon.
▪ Modifiers: As an incidental, the wielder can
switch from using the rifle to using the launcher.
Firing the launcher always uses the Ranged
(Heavy) skill, the projectile can be fired to
Medium range, and it always has the Limited
Ammo 1 quality.
▪ Hardpoints: 2

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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
Vehicles & Starships
ON THE GROUND
The UNSC’s ground vehicles are not dissimilar
from those seen on Earth during the 20th and 21st
centuries. Wheels and tracks are tried-and-true
technologies that find use across virtually every
occupied world in human space, and their standard
parts mean that virtually any industrial center
can manufacture the parts required to build and
maintain them.
All vehicles in this section require the Driving skill.
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M12 “WARTHOG” FORCE APPLICATION VEHICLE
Considered to be the gold standard in ground
transport across human space, the M12 “Warthog”
has seen action in virtually every role, from
military to law enforcement to civilian. The UNSC’s
standard platform for ground-based reconnaissance,
surveillance, and defense, the most common model is
equipped with a chaingun in the rear compartment to
serve an anti-infantry and anti-light vehicle role.
However, what the Warthog is most remarkable
for is its mobility. In the hands of a practiced combat
driver, it is able to maneuver across a heavily
populated battlefield with ease. Massive disc brakes,
automatic braking features, and a composite roll-
frame make it one of the safest rides available, and
make it rugged enough to serve as a workhorse in
any mobile armor unit. It can travel both on- and off-
road in all weather conditions.
The Warthog can be configured to serve as a
troop carrier, an ambulance, an armament carrier,
or a communications vehicle, though most of those
require replacing the distinctive chaingun in the rear
compartment with special equipment.
DEFENSE ARMOR
1 0
2 3 0 7 4
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: AMG Transport Dynamics
▪ Complement: 1 driver, 1 gunner
▪ Passenger Capacity: 1 passenger
▪ Requisition: 4
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 25
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 3
▪W
 eapons (personal scale): Rear pintle-mounted
belt-fed chaingun (Gunnery; Damage 10;
Critical 2; Long range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire,
Pierce 2, Vicious 2)

M15 “RAZORBACK” LIGHT TACTICAL VEHICLE
Though the Warthog was the darling of the CMA and
the UNSC from its inception, able to handle urban
and rural territories with ease, it notably fell short in
rugged frontier environments. Pathfinders and other
scouting units found they needed something along
the same lines as the M12 but with more power and
reliability when operating far beyond the borders of
anything that passed for civilization.
Enter the M15 “Razorback”—built on a nearly
identical frame as its cousin the Warthog, but
with key reinforcements that could withstand the
punishing terrain and weather conditions on worlds
in the midst of being terraformed. Not only did it
excel at its given task, but service members across
the board found it a more comfortable ride than the
equivalent troop ‘Hog offered by AMG Transport
Dynamics. Only its lack of direct combat capability
kept it from being adopted as the UNSC’s go-to
mobile platform during the Covenant War.
As it was originally intended to operate in rough,
unknown environments, some Razorbacks were built
with a closed cab in order to serve as a safe zone
for its passengers. However, to save on costs and
capitalize on technological leaps in environmental
suit technology, Misriah Armory opted to use
the same open-air design as the Warthog. Their
allowance for comfort in hostile atmospheres was
to package a transparent plastic “tent” that could be
sealed over the top of the Razorback and pressurized.
They are rarely used for this purpose.
DEFENSE ARMOR
1 1
2 3 -1 7 3
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Misriah Armory
▪ Complement: 1 driver
▪ Passenger Capacity: 5 passengers
▪ Requisition: 3
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 50
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 4
▪ Weapons: None
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
M274 “MONGOOSE” ULTRA-LIGHT
ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE
The M274 “Mongoose” is a four-wheeled ATV
developed for reconnaissance and speed. Its lack of
arms is intended to keep its maneuverability high,
allowing recon forces to quickly disengage from
hostile elements if spotted. While it is generally
accepted by couriers needing to cross the battlefield
quickly, it is also notorious for its lack of protection,
either from enemy attacks or from rolling.
A small platform at the rear of the vehicle is
intended for transporting important materials across
a battlefield, but despite strict UNSC safety protocols,
many units prefer to use it as additional seating for
one passenger. From this position, the passenger
can act as an additional set of eyes or even operate
a weapon, though this leaves them extremely
vulnerable in the event of a crash.
DEFENSE ARMOR
0 0
1 3 +2
4 3
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: AMG Transport Dynamics
▪ Complement: 1 driver
▪ Passenger Capacity: 1 passenger
▪ Requisition: 3
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 10
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 2
▪ Weapons: None
WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 57
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
M121 “JACKRABBIT” LIGHT STRIKE VEHICLE
On paper, the M121 “Jackrabbit” strikes a balance
between the unarmed yet agile Mongoose and the
armed, armored, and cumbersome Warthog. It has
a three-wheel design, with its front two wheels on
pinioned booms that allow them to draw together or
spread out, offering variable stability depending on its
speed, with a central wheel under the carriage. The
rear of the vehicle has space for a weapons mount,
most often configured for a grenade launcher but also
capable of fitting a chaingun or even a Gauss cannon.
Yet the Jackrabbit has long struggled to find its
niche. Despite being named a “strike” vehicle, it is
most commonly utilized for scouting missions where
speed and maneuverability are key. This leads to
many personnel leaving the weapons system off it
entirely, defeating the purpose of it being an armed
alternative to the Mongoose—except that the driver’s
carriage is enclosed, offering better protection. It
must also be said that the front booms are the bane
of mechanics everywhere, as they are prone to
getting debris jammed in their mechanisms when
operating at high speeds.
DEFENSE ARMOR
1 0
1 3 +1 5 3
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: AMG Transport Dynamics
▪ Complement: 1 driver
▪ Passenger Capacity: 0
▪ Requisition: 4
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 8
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 2
▪W
 eapons (personal scale): Rear-mounted
grenade launcher (Ranged [Heavy];
Damage 8; Critical 4; Medium range;
Fire Arc Rear; Blast 6, Inaccurate 1)
5 8 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
M650 “MASTODON” ARMORED
PERSONNEL CARRIER
Though troop carrier versions of the Warthog exist,
the UNSC found itself needing an armored personnel
carrier that could safely deliver soldiers to their
objectives during the Insurrection. AMG Transport
Dynamics’ solution is the M650 “Mastodon,” an
arrowhead-shaped six-wheeled carrier that could
withstand heavy punishment to bring its passengers
wherever they needed to go. Its only drawbacks
are its slow speed and poor maneuverability, due to
the several layers of heavy armor plating that put
considerable strain on the vehicle’s frame.
While the Human-Covenant War has seen
most troop deployments happen via dropships, the
Mastodon has remained in service with the Army
and law enforcement, both of which tend to be the
first response to planetary invasions. It is considered
to be a no-nonsense, reliable vehicle, though many
passengers complain that the lack of windows makes
it feel like an amusement park ride.
DEFENSE ARMOR
1 1
2 2 -1 8 5
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: AMG Transport Dynamics
▪ Complement: 1 driver, 1 gunner
▪ Passenger Capacity: 15-20 passengers
▪ Requisition: 4
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 80
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 2
▪W
 eapons (personal scale): Rear pintle-mounted
belt-fed chaingun (Gunnery; Damage 10;
Critical 2; Long range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire,
Pierce 2, Vicious 2)

M808C “SCORPION” MAIN BATTLE TANK
Feared across all battlefields, the M808 “Scorpion”
tank series is an unstoppable force when facing
either the Insurrection or the Covenant. Surprisingly
maneuverable for its size and weight thanks to its
four independently suspended track bogies, the
Scorpion is operated by a driver and two gunners:
one who sits inside the armored body, to aim and fire
the main cannon, and one who sits in an external ring
station to operate the pintle-mounted weapon. Four
passengers can sit safely on jump seats aboard each
bogie, keeping their hands free to fire their individual
weapons; however, they are unprotected should the
enemy choose to return fire.
If either the driver (formally known as “the
commander”) or the external gunner has a neural
interface, they can operate the main cannon without
the need for an additional gunner. An earlier variant
of the Scorpion, the M808B, featured its machine gun
on a coaxial mount with the main cannon, allowing
it to be operated by the internal gunner instead. In
this configuration, a single individual with a neural
interface can operate the entire tank.
DEFENSE ARMOR
2 2
2 2 -2 9 6
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Chalybs Defense Solutions
▪ Complement: 1 driver, 2 gunners
▪ Passenger Capacity: 4 passengers (on bogeys)
▪ Requisition: 6
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 25
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 1
▪ Weapons:
▫S
 mooth-bore high-velocity cannon (Gunnery;
Damage 5; Critical 2; Short range; Fire Arc All;
Blast 6, Breach 1, Slow-Firing 1)
▫T
 urret-mounted machine gun (personal scale)
(Gunnery; Damage 10; Critical 2; Long range;
Fire Arc Forward, Left, Right; Auto-fire,
Pierce 2, Vicious 2)
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
M850 “GRIZZLY” MAIN BATTLE TANK
The M850 “Grizzly” was designed to supplement and
eventually replace the venerable M808 “Scorpion”
as the UNSC’s main battle tank. It features double
the weaponry, with two high-velocity cannons and
two pintle-mounted machine guns. It has four bogey
treads similar to the Scorpion, plus a fifth to maintain
the tank’s stability located rear of center. It also
features heavier armor and a reinforced chassis to
handle all the extra weight.
Introduced in 2509 to adoration by vehicle
crews, its adoption was slowed by the tank’s
costly production and maintenance. It excelled in
combat against the Covenant early in the war, able
to withstand significant punishment when pitted
against enemy infantry and armor. However, its
manufacturing bases were located exclusively in the
Outer Colonies: by 2535, all the industrial worlds
capable of producing the Grizzly in meaningful
numbers had been annihilated. Those that are
currently in service have either survived since the
early stages of the war or are products of limited runs
in facilities that normally assemble Scorpion tanks.
DEFENSE ARMOR
2 3
2 2 -2 10 8
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Chalybs Defense Solutions
▪ Complement: 1 driver, 1 gunner
▪ Passenger Capacity: 4 passengers (on bogeys)
▪ Requisition: 8
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 32
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 1
▪ Weapons:
▫ 2 smooth-bore high-velocity cannons
(Gunnery; Damage 5; Critical 2; Short range;
Fire Arc All; Blast 6, Breach 1, Slow-Firing 1)
▫ 2 pintle-mounted machine guns (personal
scale) (Gunnery; Damage 10; Critical 2; Long
range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire, Linked 1,
Pierce 2, Vicious 2)
WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 59
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
HRUNTING MK. III “CYCLOPS”
POWERED EXOSKELETON
Prior to the success of the Spartans’ MJOLNIR
powered armor, the UNSC experimented with
powered exoskeletons. Until the Mark IV model
of MJOLNIR, however, the prospects of battlefield-
ready powered exoskeletons seemed grim: the power
requirements were astronomical, requiring units
to be wired into large power sources or else
stay within a limited range for wireless power.
Fortunately, the advancements of MJOLNIR
opened up new possibilities.
The HRUNTING series was the result, and the
Mk. III “Cyclops” is the most successful of them. It
is a bipedal exo-suit, in which the operator sits in
the torso and controls the unit from there. Initially
designed for logistics and support in order to convey
heavy objects, the Cyclops is also effective in combat.
Its powerful claws are effective at tearing down
fortifications and damaging enemy vehicles, while its
left arm is capable of mounting a chaingun to address
enemy personnel. The exoskeleton’s success has
inspired additional development projects, but these
other units are kept under wraps by ONI.
DEFENSE ARMOR
1 1
2 1 -1 8 8
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Hannibal Weapons Systems
& Lethbridge Industrial
▪ Complement: 1 driver
▪ Passenger Capacity: 0
▪ Requisition: 8
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 5
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 1
▪ Weapons:
▫M
 achine gun mounted on left arm (personal
scale) (Gunnery; Damage 10; Critical 2;
Long range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire,
Pierce 2, Vicious 2)
▫C
 onstruction claws (Brawl; Damage 2;
Critical 3; Close range; Breach 1)
6 0 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
M400 “KODIAK” MOBILE SIEGE VEHICLE
The M400 “Kodiak” addresses the need for rapidly
mobile artillery on a modern battlefield. Its oversized
cannon has breathtaking range, but when fired the
vehicle must be locked down in place to prevent
the cannon’s recoil from flipping it over. This is
accomplished with special “legs” that extend from
the chassis, which support the Kodiak on a variety
of terrain.
Though first developed to lay siege to entrenched
Insurrectionist positions, the Kodiak proved equally
effective at shelling Covenant structures and
encampments. More relevant, however, is its ability
to quickly change position as needed as the enemy
advances. This means that artillery support for
ground operations can perform consistently, giving
Marines and Army troopers the firepower they need
to slow down the Covenant’s inexorable intrusion
into the Inner Colonies. As such, Kodiaks are escorted
at all times, since they tend to be priority targets
for the enemy.
DEFENSE ARMOR
0 2
2 2 -2 8 10
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Misriah Armory
▪ Complement: 1 driver, 1 navigator, 1 gunner
▪ Passenger Capacity: 6
▪ Requisition: 9
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 45
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 0
▪ Weapons:
▫H
 eavy artillery cannon (Gunnery; Damage 8;
Critical 3; Extreme range; Fire Arc All; Blast 6,
Breach 2, Slow-Firing 2)
▫T
 urret-mounted machine gun (personal scale)
(Gunnery; Damage 10; Critical 2; Long range;
Fire Arc Forward, Left, Right; Auto-fire,
Pierce 2, Vicious 2)

M313 “ELEPHANT” HEAVY RECOVERY VEHICLE
The M313 Elephant is based on utility and farming
vehicles that were popular during early human
colonization of the galaxy. Standing two stories tall
with a thick, armored hull, Elephants are most often
used to transport and retrieve heavy equipment from
the battlefield with its large crane, but they can act as
mobile command centers and deployment points for
ground forces. Transport for these units can be very
difficult, requiring an Albatross-class dropship.
To support combat operations, Elephants have
three turrets mounted across the top of its hull,
providing overlapping fire across its front and
flanks. The rear features a ramp that allows troops
and vehicles to disembark en masse from inside. A
modified civilian version, called the Olifant, is still
used in rural areas as an agricultural model and in
urban zones as a waste hauler—obviously without
the heavy armaments.
DEFENSE ARMOR
1 2
3 1 -3 30 20
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING
HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: JOTUN Heavy Industries.
▪ Complement: 1 driver, 2 gunners.
▪ Passenger Capacity: 16 passengers and
1 Warthog or 6 Mongooses
▪ Requisition: 8
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 120
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Hardpoints: 2
▪ Weapons (personal scale):
▫F
 orward turret-mounted belt-fed chaingun
(Gunnery; Damage 10; Critical 2; Long range;
Fire Arc Forward, Left, Right; Auto-fire,
Pierce 2, Vicious 2)
▫R
 ight-side turret-mounted belt-fed chaingun
(Gunnery; Damage 10; Critical 2; Long range;
Fire Arc Forward, Right, Rear; Auto-fire,
Pierce 2, Vicious 2)
▫L
 eft-side turret-mounted belt-fed chaingun
(Gunnery; Damage 10; Critical 2; Long range;
Fire Arc Forward, Left, Rear; Auto-fire,
Pierce 2, Vicious 2)
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
IN AIR & SPACE
The necessity of air superiority on the battlefield
was established in the early 20th century, and it is
a lesson humanity took with them into space. UNSC
air and space vehicles often make extensive use of
advanced and refined jet technology, though there
are some exceptions as described below.
All vehicles in this section require the Piloting skill,
whether they operate in an atmosphere, in the void
of space, or both.
AV-14 “HORNET” ATTACK VTOL
Serving as the UNSC’s primary assault, search and
reconnaissance, and close air support aircraft, the
AV-14 “Hornet” is a vertical takeoff-and-landing
vehicle. Due to its atmospheric nature, these are
rarely deployed from ships but instead take off from
terrestrial bases. They are proficient at anti-infantry
and anti-vehicle operations with no additional
modifications, while jump seats located to either side
of the cockpit along the landing skids allow them to
carry up to four passengers.
Hornets are intended to travel quickly and stay
maneuverable, as they lack the necessary armor
plating or support in order to withstand sustained
combat. Many pilots warn of “Hornet fever,” where
their operators can be lulled into a false sense of
security by the comparatively heavy armaments and
fail to keep moving in combat.
DEFENSE ARMOR
0 1
3 4 +2 8 8
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Misriah Armory
▪ Complement: 1 pilot
▪ Passenger Capacity: 4 passengers
▪ Requisition: 4
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 10
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 1
WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 61
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
▪ Weapons:
▫C
 hin-mounted GAU-23 autocannon
(Gunnery; Damage 1; Critical 3; Close range;
Fire Arc Forward, Left, Right; Auto-fire)
▫W
 ing-mounted air-to-surface missile pods
(Gunnery; Damage 3; Critical 3; Short range;
Fire Arc Forward; Blast 4, Breach 1, Linked 1)
AV-22 “SPARROWHAWK” HEAVY ATTACK VTOL
The AV-22 “Sparrowhawk” is considered the big
brother of the Hornet. It is an aerodyne deployed as
the UNSC’s main tank hunter, used to support ground
advances that require swift strikes. In addition to
considerable anti-infantry capabilities with its twin
autocannons, the Sparrowhawk boasts a chin-
mounted version of a Spartan Laser that can cut
through enemy armor with ease.
While considered to be highly effective, the cost
of its nonlinear armaments and the high-maintenance
nature of its dual-ducted lift fans has kept it from
seeing widespread adoption. As the Human-Covenant
War moved into the Inner Colonies, the Sparrowhawk
was also found to be far less maneuverable in urban
warzones than the Hornet, making it less effective
for air support.
DEFENSE ARMOR
0 2
3 5 0 0
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING
12 9
HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Misriah Armory
▪ Complement: 1 pilot, 1 gunner
▪ Passenger Capacity: None
▪ Requisition: 6
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 25
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 2
▪ Weapons:
▫W
 ing-mounted twin GAU-23 autocannons
(Gunnery; Damage 1; Critical 3; Close range;
Fire Arc Forward; Auto-fire, Linked 1, Pierce 2)
▫C
 hin-mounted nonlinear cannon (Gunnery;
Damage 2; Critical 2; Long range; Fire Arc
Forward; Breach 2, Slow-Firing 1)
6 2 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
D77-TC “PELICAN” DROPSHIP
The D77-TC “Pelican” dropship entered service over
fifty years ago and has seen little change since its
inception. It is the dropship of choice for both the
military and for civilian law enforcement, as it has a
reputation for reliability and ruggedness. However,
its operation requires a deft hand, and while it uses a
standard interface that virtually all UNSC pilots train
on, most are hoping for a flashier assignment than
“driving the bus.”
In addition to its universally recognized and
respected role as a dropship, the Pelican also serves
as a gunship when the mission calls for it, bringing a
chin-mounted autocannon and wing-mounted missile
pods to bear. Magnetic clamps on the aft overhang
allow it to carry additional cargo and ordnance,
whether it is six equipment pods or a full-size M12
Warthog or M808 Scorpion. Seats in the cargo bay (or
“blood tray,” according to the Marines) accommodate
ten passengers, with additional standing room for ten
more or two M274 Mongooses.
Multiple variants of the Pelican exist to fit
particular mission profiles, though the most common
is the D77H-TCI, which features tandem seating for
the pilot and co-pilot (instead of side-by-side in the
basic model) and integrated missile pods as opposed
to removable external pods.
DEFENSE ARMOR
2
4 4 -1 10 10
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Misriah Armory
▪ Complement: 1 pilot, 1 co-pilot, 1 crew chief
▪ Passenger Capacity: 10–20 passengers,
1 silhouette 2 or smaller vehicle
▪ Requisition: 5
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 80
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 2
▪ Weapons:
▫ Chin-mounted autocannon
(Gunnery; Damage 2; Critical 3; Close range;
Fire Arc Forward, Left, Right; Auto-fire)
▫T
 wo wing-mounted air-to-surface missile pods
(Gunnery; Damage 3; Critical 3; Short range;
Fire Arc Forward; Blast 4, Breach 1, Linked 3)

D96-TCE “ALBATROSS” HEAVY-LIFT DROPSHIP
The D96 “Albatross” is the UNSC’s designated heavy-
lift dropship, serving to carry loads that are high in
quantity or mass to and from the battlefield. Where
the D77 “Pelican” uses twin primary articulated
engine pods, the Albatross has four that are
additionally overcharged by an outsized on-board
fusion reactor. This allows it to transport more than
double the mass of the Pelican, making the Albatross
the aircraft of choice when deploying large quantities
of equipment and personnel to a landing zone.
Where it falls short is in armament as well as
specialized roles. To give it the maximum allowable
transport capability, an Albatross usually carries
no weapons of its own and utilizes a stripped down
electronics system, relying more on mechanical
hydraulic systems where possible. This has the
effect of making it more resilient, able to shake off
hits that might cripple a Pelican, but as a direct
result it relies heavily on escorts to protect it while
it completes its missions.
The Albatross itself is an upsized version of the
D82-EST “Darter,” which is most often used to deliver
variable building modules that can be connected to
form planetary firebases.
DEFENSE ARMOR
0 2
4 3 -2 18 12
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING
HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Ushuaiah Armory
▪ Complement: 1 pilot, 1 co-pilot, 1–2 crewmen
▪ Passenger Capacity: 45–50 passengers,
2 silhouette 2 or smaller vehicles or
1 silhouette 3 vehicle
▪ Requisition: 7
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 150
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 4
▪ Weapons: None
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
B-65 “SHORTSWORD” SUBORBITAL
LONG-RANGE BOMBER
The B-65 “Shortsword” is a sub-orbital bomber
that has been in service with the UNSC for over a
century. Its airframe features sweeping wings, a
blunt, rounded nose, and an elongated munitions
boom that can accommodate a wide range of
potential armaments.
Shortswords are venerated among both the Navy
and the Air Force for their reliability, affectionately
dubbed “the Warthogs of the air” by their crews.
This ruggedness kept them in service even after
their planned retirement date in 2534, as they proved
just as effective against Covenant targets as the
Longswords that were meant to replace them. Not
even their sub-orbital support nature has proven a
hindrance, as the bombers were refit to function in
low orbit so they could be more easily deployed by
their motherships.
DEFENSE ARMOR
1 1
4 4 0
10 8
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Misriah Armory.
▪ Complement: 1 pilot, 1 co-pilot,
1 systems technician.
▪ Passenger Capacity: 4 passengers.
▪ Requisition: 6.
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 125.
▪ Consumables: Two weeks.
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 2.
▪ Weapons:
▫T
 win machine-linked autocannons
(Gunnery; Damage 2; Critical 3; Close range;
Fire Arc Forward; Auto-fire, Linked 1)
▫B
 omb delivery system
(Gunnery; Damage 7; Critical 3; Long range;
Fire Arc Ventral; Blast 6, Breach 2)
WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 63
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

S-14 “BASELARD” SPACE STRIKE FIGHTER GA-TL1 “LONGSWORD” INTERCEPTOR/

STRIKE FIGHTER
Able to carry anti-ship Archer-class missiles, the
Baselard Space Strike Fighter is over-gunned for its Developed in the 25th century, the Longsword
size, as it was originally intended to make attack runs Interceptor/Strike Fighter is designed to occupy
against corvettes and frigates before and during the virtually any role required of a space superiority
Insurrection. This design decision detracts from the fighter. Depending on its loadout, it can serve as a
fighter’s potential maneuverability, but many pilots fighter, interceptor, bomber, or suppressor. It is also
feel the trade-off is worth being able to punch above nuclear strike-capable, as it can carry a single Shiva-
their weight class in ship-to-ship combat with the class warhead. It only has light armor, though its
Covenant, as they are also effective dogfighters. composite plating and angular, manta-shaped design
mean that opponents have a hard time acquiring a
DEFENSE ARMOR
weapons lock.
1 1 The Longsword is also the smallest craft
4 5 +1 12 12 that can mount an artificial intelligence running
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
at full capacity, as its systems were designed to
accommodate the computing power and processing
speed required from its initial launch. If an AI is
▪ Manufacturer: Misriah Armory
on board, a single pilot can fly the Longsword.
▪ Complement: 1 pilot, 1 co-pilot However, the expense of AIs mean that this feature
▪ Passenger Capacity: N/A is rarely used.
▪ Requisition: 7 DEFENSE ARMOR

▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 50 1 1
▪ Consumables: Two weeks 4 5 +1 12 12
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 3 HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD

▪ Weapons:
▪ Manufacturer: Misriah Armory
▫T
 win machine-linked autocannons
▪ Complement: 1 pilot, 1 co-pilot, 1 navigator,
(Gunnery; Damage 2; Critical 3; Close range;
1 systems operator
Fire Arc Forward; Auto-fire, Linked 1)
▪ Passenger Capacity: 4 passengers
▫ 2 Archer missile launchers
(Gunnery; Damage 6; Critical 3; Short range; ▪ Requisition: 8
Fire Arc All; Guided 3, Limited Ammo 2) ▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 180
▪ Consumables: Two weeks
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 3
▪ Weapons:
▫T
 win machine-linked autocannons
(Gunnery; Damage 2; Critical 3; Close range;
Fire Arc Forward; Auto-fire, Linked 1)
▫V
 entral high-explosive cannon
(Gunnery; Damage 3; Critical 3; Close range;
Fire Arc Forward, Left, Right; Breach 1)
▫A
 SGM-10 missile launchers
(Gunnery; Damage 4; Critical 3; Short range;
Fire Arc Forward; Blast 6, Breach 1,
Guided 3, Linked 3)

6 4 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0


SINGLE OCCUPANT EXOATMOSPHERIC
INSERTION VEHICLE (SOEIV)
With a variety of different designs and configurations,
SOEIVs serve a single purpose: to deliver one person
to the surface of a planet. No consideration for
comfort is given beyond survivability, and the SOIEV
itself has minimal guidance or control. It may be
more accurate to consider it a bullet fired out of a gun
rather than a proper vehicle or spacecraft.
SOEIVs are utilized across all branches of the
UNSC, though their most famous users are the
Orbital Drop Shock Troopers, who use SOEIVs to
assault enemy positions or insert behind enemy lines.
There is a single entry and escape hatch on one side
and reinforced impact plating on the bottom to absorb
the hard landing, augmented by a braking chute and
landing thrusters. Nevertheless, virtually all users
complain about the teeth-rattling effect of riding a
SOEIV down through an atmospheric insertion.
It is important to note that a SOEIV has
virtually no protection beside its extreme speed
and the element of surprise. After enemy anti-air
defenses, mechanical failure is the leading cause of
death for SOEIV users, most often when the chute
and/or braking thrusters fail to fire, or the hatch
does not deploy.
DEFENSE ARMOR
2 0
2 5 -4 5 4
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Ushaiah Armory
▪ Complement: N/A
▪ Passenger Capacity: 1 passenger
▪ Requisition: N/A
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 10
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 0
▪ Weapons: None
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
UH-144 “FALCON” UTILITY HELICOPTER
The UH-144 “Falcon” utility helicopter is proof
that effective technology will always stick around.
Utilizing a twin-rotor design as well as jets, the
Falcon operates as both a troop transport and
gunship, able to provide ground support thanks
to its effective weaponry. It is also capable of
suppressing light vehicles, though it is not
renowned for this ability.
The cabin can comfortably seat three passengers
in addition to the two “door gunners” on either side.
However, the Falcon’s open design means that two
additional passengers can sit on the edge, leaving
their legs dangling and exposed to enemy fire.
Nevertheless, many troopers in the UNSC Army
prefer those spots, as they offer the quickest way
off the Falcon and into the fight.
DEFENSE ARMOR
0 1
3 4 0 10 8
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Misriah Armory
▪ Complement: 1 pilot, 2 door gunners
▪ Passenger Capacity: 5 passengers
▪ Requisition: 4
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 25
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 2
▪ Weapons:
▫ Chin-mounted autocannon
(Gunnery; Damage 2; Critical 3; Close range;
Fire Arc Forward, Left, Right; Auto-fire)
▫L
 eft & right heavy machine guns (personal
scale) (Gunnery; Damage 10; Critical 2; Long
range; Fire Arc Left or Right; Auto-fire,
Pierce 2, Vicious 2)
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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

YSS-1000 “SABRE” PROTOTYPE Additional Rules

ANTI-SHIP SPACEPLANE
▪ Shielded 2: In combat, energy shields provide
The YSS-1000 “Sabre” began life as a concept for extra armor equal to the ship’s Shielded rating
a fighter that could transition between atmosphere and prevent the ship from suffering critical hits.
and space under its own power. This proved to be They also ignore the effects of the Breach quality.
infeasible, but over time the design evolved into On a successful combat skill check, an opponent
an anti-Covenant weapon capable of engaging the may spend 󲊵 or a number of 󲊴 equal to their
enemy in orbit or deep space. Utilizing cutting-edge weapon’s critical rating to remove the Shielded
shield technology reverse-engineered from Covenant quality from their target until the end of the
vessels, it was hoped the Sabre could prove to be a encounter. The extra armor has not been
planetary defense platform all on its own. factored into the above stat block.
Ultimately, the exorbitant cost of the shielding
and the loss of critical Inner Colony manufacturing
infrastructure meant only a few hundred Sabres were
produced. Their existence remains classified due to
the inclusion of Covenant shield technology, although
rumors of the Sabre program’s existence have
dogged several civilian administrations. One tale even
claims that Spartans were used as test pilots and that
the Sabres were originally designed for a long-range
mission to strike at the heart of Covenant space.

DEFENSE ARMOR

2 2
4 4 0 14 10
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD

▪ Manufacturer: Misriah Armory (unconfirmed)

▪ Complement: 1 pilot, 1 systems operator
▪ Passenger Capacity: None
▪ Requisition: N/A
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 12
▪ Consumables: None
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 1
▪ Weapons:
▫T
 win machine-linked autocannons
(Gunnery; Damage 2; Critical 3; Close range;
Fire Arc Forward; Auto-fire, Linked 1)
▫S
 T/Medusa missile launchers (Gunnery;
Damage 4; Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc
Forward; Blast 6, Breach 1, Guided 3, Linked 1)

6 6 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0


SHIPS OF THE LINE
When it comes to the UNSC fleet, the lessons of the
Insurrection were quickly applied to the war with the
Covenant. Designed for function over form, human
vessels are often blocky and utilitarian. They make
extensive use of missiles in combat, though the best
weapon humanity has in fleet actions is the fearsome
Magnetic Accelerator Cannon, or MAC gun. These
ship-sized weapons fire massive tungsten-carbide
slugs to a measurable percentage of lightspeed and
are so powerful they have to be built into the vessel’s
superstructure and mounted to its keel.
Unfortunately, despite this and other advantages,
UNSC vessels are often outmatched when pitted
against their Covenant counterparts. It is widely
accepted that the UNSC has to outnumber the
Covenant three-to-one in a fleet action in order to
have a chance at victory. This has proven to be a
costly ratio, and after twenty-five years at war it has
left the fleet severely depleted.
All vessels in this section require the Operating skill.
Fleet vessels cannot be requisitioned as normal
and are instead assigned based on the needs of the
mission or the rank of the command officer.
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
GLADIUS-CLASS HEAVY CORVETTE
Perhaps the smallest frontline combat ship in the
UNSC fleet, the Gladius-class heavy corvette began
life as an up-armored version of the Mako-class
corvette. Both vessels saw extensive use during
the Insurrection, earning a combined reputation as
fearsome little ships that could punch above their
weight class.
That reputation did not survive contact with the
Covenant. The realities of direct action against alien
vessels which possessed energy shields and plasma
weapons saw corvettes reduced to little more than
an afterthought. While still potent enough to act as
tracking ships and screens for enemy fighters, the
Gladius-class now mostly serves as a support and
recon vessel, or as an interdictor against civilian
vessels engaged in criminal acts. The Mako-class has
been virtually discontinued, with the few surviving
hulls used only for light transport duties and
smuggler interdiction.
DEFENSE ARMOR
0 2
5 3 -1 40 25
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: TanSec AB
▪ Complement: 15 crew
▪ Passenger Capacity: None
▪ Requisition: N/A
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 2,500
▪ Consumables: One year
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 4
▪ Weapons:
▫ 6 point defense guns (Gunnery; Damage 4;
Critical 3; Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▫ 2 Archer missile pods (Gunnery; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All;
Guided 3, Linked 3)
▫ 1 keel-mounted Mk. II MAC gun (Gunnery;
Damage 20; Critical 2; Extreme range;
Fire Arc Forward; Breach 2, Slow-Firing 2)
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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

ECLIPSE-CLASS PROWLER Additional Rules

Prowlers are stealth-capable vessels crewed and
operated almost exclusively by ONI’s Prowler Corps.
Like most ships of this type, the Eclipse-class prowler
is slightly smaller than a frigate and much less armed
and armored, relying on its extensive electronic
warfare suite and stealth systems to accomplish
missions without the enemy even realizing it is there.
Introduced by 2526, ONI intended for the Eclipse-
class prowlers to gradually replace the aging Razor-
class prowlers that had seen extensive action prior
to and throughout the Insurrection. The arrival of the
Covenant forced this plan to change, as ONI realized
it would need its entire fleet of prowlers undertaking
dangerous infiltration and intelligence-gathering
missions in order to better understand its new foe.
Eclipse-class prowlers are now seen as equivalent
to Razor-class prowlers, to the point that most UNSC
personnel cannot easily distinguish between the two.
▪E
 lectronic Warfare Suite: Prowler crews prefer
to use electronic warfare to fight their battles
rather than rely on their light armaments. When
making a Hacking or Sysops skill check to
infiltrate an enemy network or defend an allied
network, the prowler’s electronic warfare suite
adds an automatic 󲊳 to the check.
▪ Stealth Systems: Prowlers have stealth systems
capable of hiding the ship from both sensors
and the naked eye. A stealth ablative coating on
the outer hull absorbs radar and laser tracking
systems, automatically upgrading the difficulty
of any skill checks made to locate the prowler
once. In addition, prowlers use photo-reactive
panels to visually disguise the ship, adding 󲊸󲊸
to Perception checks made to detect the ship.

DEFENSE ARMOR

2 1
5 2 -1 35 35
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD

▪ Manufacturer: TanSec AB
▪ Complement: 22 crew
▪ Passenger Capacity: 42 passengers or troops
▪ Requisition: N/A
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 1,500
▪ Consumables: Six months
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 1
▪ Weapons:
▫ 4 autocannons (Gunnery; Damage 2; Critical 3;
Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▫ 4 Archer missile pods (Gunnery; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All;
Guided 3, Linked 3)

6 8 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0


CHARON-CLASS LIGHT FRIGATE
Frigates once served as the workhorse of the UNSC
fleet during the Insurrection. The Charon-class light
frigate, while more lightly armed and armored than
its heavier counterparts, was seen as the bane of
Insurrectionists everywhere. It is capable of landing
a large number of troops and armor in a combat
zone, a capacity which also allows it to serve in a
fleet support role by shuttling crews back and forth
between larger vessels.
During the Covenant War, frigates are required
to attack en masse in order to have an effect on the
highly advanced alien vessels. The Charon-class
serves in this role admirably, able to operate in
formations to harry enemy vessels and draw them
away from their support ships. While this has meant
a high number of losses for the light frigates, they
are comparatively cheap to produce, ensuring that it
remains one of the UNSC’s most visible warships in
the ongoing struggle.
DEFENSE ARMOR
1 3
5 3 -1 65 50
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: SinoViet Heavy Machinery
▪ Complement: 167 crew
▪ Passenger Capacity: 615 passengers or troops
▪ Requisition: N/A
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 3,500
▪ Consumables: One year
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 3
▪ Weapons:
▫ 4 point defense guns (Gunnery; Damage 4;
Critical 3; Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▫ 5 0 Archer missile pods (Gunnery; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All;
Guided 3, Linked 3)
▫ 1 keel-mounted Mk. II MAC gun (Gunnery;
Damage 20; Critical 2; Extreme range;
Fire Arc Forward; Breach 2, Slow-Firing 2)
▫ 3 nuclear delivery systems (Gunnery;
Damage 60; Critical 1; Strategic range;
Fire Arc Dorsal [launching], all [targeting];
Breach 1, Burn 8, Limited Ammo 3)
SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
PARIS-CLASS HEAVY FRIGATE
While light frigates are able to function as unofficial
carriers in the fleet, Paris-class heavy frigates take a
more combat-focused role. They have heavier armor
and are armed for ship-to-ship combat, allowing them
to take the fight directly to the enemy. This allowed
lone frigates to be a formidable opponent during the
Insurrection, and though the war with the Covenant
requires larger formations, the Paris-class remains a
force to be reckoned with.
The main drawback is the heavy frigate’s lack of
capacity for carrying troops and armor to terrestrial
battlefields. They are only able to field a modest
number of ground forces, limiting their participation
in protracted campaigns to orbital support and
generally precluding them from assisting during
evacuation operations.
DEFENSE ARMOR
1 4
5 3 -2 75 45
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: SinoViet Heavy Machinery
▪ Complement: 225 crew
▪ Passenger Capacity: 435 passengers or troops
▪ Requisition: N/A
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 4,000
▪ Consumables: One year
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 2
▪ Weapons:
▫ 4 point defense guns (Gunnery; Damage 4;
Critical 3; Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▫ 1 2 naval coilgun batteries (Gunnery; Damage 5;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▫ 2 6 Archer missile pods (Gunnery; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All;
Guided 3, Linked 3)
▫ 1 keel-mounted Mk. II MAC gun (Gunnery;
Damage 20; Critical 2; Extreme range;
Fire Arc Forward; Breach 2, Slow-Firing 2)
▫ 3 nuclear delivery systems (Gunnery;
Damage 60; Critical 1; Strategic range;
Fire Arc Dorsal [launching], all [targeting];
Breach 1, Burn 8, Limited Ammo 3)
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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
HALBERD-CLASS DESTROYER
Designed exclusively for attack and escort missions,
the Halberd-class destroyer forms the tip of the spear
in most UNSC fleet actions. Unlike smaller frigates
and corvettes, destroyers have proven to remain
effective against Covenant targets, particularly when
they engage in wolfpack tactics and coordinate fire
from their high-powered MAC guns.
The Halberd-class features high-quality armor
that is laid on extra thick at the bow, encouraging
forward assaults that can be devastating against
Covenant broadsides while presenting a narrower
silhouette for counterattack. Minimal consideration
has been given for comfort, allowing the ship to
run with a smaller-than-average crew and a single
platoon of Marines to repel boarding actions. This
feeds into the destroyer’s reputation as a killer and
a hunter of ships.
DEFENSE ARMOR
2 4
6 2 -2 110 85
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: SinoViet Heavy Machinery
▪ Complement: 250 crew
▪ Passenger Capacity: 50 passengers or troops
▪ Requisition: N/A
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 3,000
▪ Consumables: One year
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 2
▪ Weapons:
▫ 4 point defense guns (Gunnery; Damage 4;
Critical 3; Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▫ 2 6 Archer missile pods (Gunnery; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All;
Guided 3, Linked 3)
▫ 1 keel-mounted Mk. IV MAC gun (Gunnery;
Damage 45; Critical 2; Extreme range;
Fire Arc Forward; Breach 3, Slow-Firing 1)
▫ 3 nuclear delivery systems (Gunnery; Damage
60; Critical 1; Strategic range; Fire Arc Dorsal
[launching], all [targeting]; Breach 1, Burn 8,
Limited Ammo 3)
7 0 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
HALCYON-CLASS LIGHT CRUISER
On paper, the Halcyon-class light cruiser was
supposed to be a knockout. It had a tried and tested
cruiser frame with a series of internal cross bracings
and honeycombs that proved to be incredibly sturdy:
they could remain operational even after sustaining
breaches to every compartment and losing 90%
of their armor. But the components required were
astronomically expensive to produce and maintain,
and the combination of its low maneuverability
and poor armament made it a tactical liability. The
cruisers were mothballed with little fanfare during
the Insurrection.
However, the ships gained new life following the
arrival of the Covenant, when it was discovered that
the internal modifications made it more capable of
weathering the deadly plasma weapons used by the
enemy. With an upgrade to its armaments and fusion
reactor, the Halcyon-class became a noteworthy
contender in fleet actions despite its smaller size
when compared with other cruisers. It also serves
admirably as a troop and supply carrier, as well as
a fleet escort.
DEFENSE ARMOR
2 6
7 1 -3 180 120
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Reyes-McLees Shipyards
▪ Complement: 600 crew
▪ Passenger Capacity: 1,600 passengers or troops
▪ Requisition: N/A
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 8,600
▪ Consumables: Two years
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 1
▪ Weapons:
▫ 1 8 point defense guns (Gunnery; Damage 4;
Critical 3; Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▫ 1 4 naval coilgun batteries (Gunnery; Damage 5;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▫ 3 2 Archer missile pods (Gunnery; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All;
Guided 3, Linked 3)
 SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

▫ 1 keel-mounted Mk. II MAC gun (Gunnery; ▪ Weapons:

Damage 20; Critical 2; Extreme range; ▫ 2 4 point defense guns (Gunnery; Damage 4;
Fire Arc Forward; Breach 2, Slow-Firing 2) Critical 3; Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▫ 4 nuclear delivery systems (Gunnery; Damage ▫ 8 naval coilgun batteries (Gunnery; Damage 5;
60; Critical 1; Strategic range; Fire Arc Dorsal Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
[launching], all [targeting]; Breach 1, Burn 8,
Limited Ammo 3) ▫ 1 08 Archer missile pods (Gunnery; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All;
Additional Rules Guided 3, Linked 3)
▪ Massive 1: When making an attack targeting this ▫ 2 keel-mounted Mk. IV MAC guns (Gunnery;
vessel, the critical rating of any weapons used Damage 45; Critical 2; Extreme range;
counts as 1 higher. Fire Arc Forward; Breach 3, Slow-Firing 1)
▫ 2 nuclear delivery systems (Gunnery; Damage
MARATHON-CLASS HEAVY CRUISER 60; Critical 1; Strategic range; Fire Arc Dorsal
After the disastrous rollout of the Halcyon-class [launching], all [targeting]; Breach 1, Burn 8,
during the Insurrection, the UNSC rushed to produce Limited Ammo 3)
a more efficient and capable cruiser that relied on Additional Rules
conventional space combat technology. The result
was the Marathon-class heavy cruiser, which rapidly ▪ Massive 1: When making an attack targeting this
became the darling of the UNSC Navy. As the war vessel, the critical rating of any weapons used
pivoted from Insurrectionists to the Covenant, counts as 1 higher.
the Marathon-class maintained its position as the
backbone of the fleet.
Aside from the extra armor and defense afforded
by the increased bulk, the heavy cruiser establishes
its battlefield dominance with considerable
weapons systems. It is capable of launching a truly
breathtaking number of missiles, and its reactor is
more than capable of handling its twin heavy MAC
guns, allowing level-headed gunners to maintain
a devastating fusillade of rounds. Marathon-class
heavy cruisers fill virtually every role in the fleet,
which also makes them a primary target for enemy
forces during fleet engagements.

DEFENSE ARMOR

2 5
7 1 -3 160 145
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD

▪ Manufacturer: Reyes-McLees Shipyards

▪ Complement: 1,000 crew
▪ Passenger Capacity: 1,800 passengers or troops
▪ Requisition: N/A
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 7,500
▪ Consumables: Two years
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 2

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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
VINDICATION-CLASS LIGHT BATTLESHIP
Support for developing a battleship in the UNSC fleet
was originally lacking. Battleships are usually ship-
to-ship vessels with extremely heavy armaments, and
the Insurrection rarely fielded anything even as large
as a destroyer, let alone a cruiser. Proponents of
the measure eventually garnered enough interest to
develop a toned-down version, the Vindication-class
light battleship, as a planetary suppression element
in the event of another Far Isle incident.
The first of the line rolled out of the production
yards in 2525, right at the same time the UNSC
became aware of the Covenant and its advanced
capabilities. Production exploded virtually overnight
as the Navy found itself handily outclassed in all its
initial fleet actions, and the Vindication-class became
a mainstay of the battlefield from that point forward.
Because of its focus on ship-to-ship combat at
the expense of all other roles, they are a rare sight to
other branches of the UNSC military. Its twin heavy
MAC guns are able to inflict devastating damage
against Covenant targets, and it is considered the
preferred platform for launching nuclear mission
orders. Its capacity to go toe-to-toe with the Covenant
is only curtailed by the model’s limited numbers—the
inevitable consequence of rapidly losing industrial
colonies to the enemy advance.
DEFENSE ARMOR
2 6
8 1 -3 210 150
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING
HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: Reyes-McLees Shipyards
▪ Complement: 2,788 crew
▪ Passenger Capacity: 460 passengers or troops
▪ Requisition: N/A
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 8,000
▪ Consumables: Two years
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 1
▪ Weapons:
▫ 2 4 point defense guns (Gunnery; Damage 4;
Critical 3; Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▫ 1 8 naval coilgun batteries (Gunnery; Damage 5;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
7 2 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
▫ 5 2 Archer missile pods (Gunnery; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All;
Guided 3, Linked 3)
▫ 2 keel-mounted Mk. IV MAC gun (Gunnery;
Damage 45; Critical 2; Extreme range;
Fire Arc Forward; Breach 3, Slow-Firing 1)
▫ 6 nuclear delivery systems (Gunnery; Damage
60; Critical 1; Strategic range; Fire Arc Dorsal
[launching], all [targeting]; Breach 1, Burn 8,
Limited Ammo 3)
Additional Rules
▪ Massive 2: When making an attack targeting this
vessel, the critical rating of any weapons used
counts as 2 higher.
PHOENIX-CLASS COLONY SHIP
The Phoenix-class colony ship has the distinction of
being the only vessel in the fleet with a non-military
origin. It was originally developed by the UEG to carry
colonists in cryostorage to far-flung worlds, using
its massive cargo space to transport prefabricated
colony starter units. They were capable of carrying
out industrial manufacturing and science missions
too, should the situation require it.
The Phoenix-class was considered old by the
time of the Insurrection, intended to be replaced
with the faster Unicorn-class colony ships. A pilot
program in the UNSC Navy purchased several of
the older colony ships slated for decommissioning
in order to be refitted as cheaper alternatives to
dedicated carriers. Despite the program’s success,
it was not slated to move forward until the arrival of
the Covenant changed the nature of space warfare.
The UNSC quickly seized all remaining Phoenix-class
colony ships to be refit into warships.
While their size and rugged design made the
Phoenix-class effective as a carrier and popular with
their crews, they were nevertheless not ideal for war.
They acted as a stopgap, allowing the UNSC time
to develop newer carriers that could withstand the
ordeal of naval engagements with a highly advanced
foe. Of the dozen colony ships that were refitted, only
three remain in service.
DEFENSE ARMOR
3 6
8 1 -4 300 140
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
 SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

▪ Manufacturer: Halifax Spacewerks that remain are carefully protected and are more
▪ Complement: 3,376 crew often used to facilitate planetary evacuations than to
launch assaults.
▪ Passenger Capacity: 7,624 passengers or troops
DEFENSE ARMOR
▪ Requisition: N/A
3 5
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 15,000
▪ Consumables: Three years
8 1 -4 240 175
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 3
▪ Weapons: ▪ Manufacturer: Reyes-McLees Shipyards
▫ 4 0 point defense guns (Gunnery; Damage 4; ▪ Complement: 2,897 crew
Critical 3; Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire) ▪ Passenger Capacity: 2,400 passengers or troops
▫ 1 0 naval coilgun batteries (Gunnery; Damage 5; ▪ Hangar Capacity: 48 dropships, 12 space fighters
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▪ Requisition: N/A
▫ 2 4 Archer missile pods (Gunnery; Damage 6;
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 9,500
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All;
Guided 3, Linked 3) ▪ Consumables: Two years
▫ 3 keel-mounted Mk. II MAC guns (Gunnery; ▪ Customization Hardpoints: 1
Damage 20; Critical 2; Extreme range; Fire Arc ▪ Weapons:
Forward; Breach 2, Slow-Firing 2)
▫ 2 4 point defense guns (Gunnery; Damage 4;
Additional Rules Critical 3; Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▪ Massive 2: When making an attack targeting this ▫ 2 0 naval coilgun batteries (Gunnery; Damage 5;
vessel, the critical rating of any weapons used Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
counts as 2 higher. ▫ 3 8 Archer missile pods (Gunnery; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All;
ORION-CLASS ASSAULT CARRIER Guided 3, Linked 3)
The Orion-class assault carrier served as the ▫ 2 keel-mounted Mk. IV MAC guns (Gunnery;
main engine of the UNSC during the Insurrection, Damage 45; Critical 2; Extreme range; Fire Arc
transporting battalions of Marines to worlds in revolt. Forward; Breach 2, Slow-Firing 1)
As such, they were frequently used as flagships and
seen by rebels as emblematic of the boot on the neck Additional Rules
of the Outer Colonies. The arrival of the Covenant did ▪ Massive 2: When making an attack targeting this
not see much change to the Orion-class in combat, vessel, the critical rating of any weapons used
though they proved to be vulnerable targets to the counts as 2 higher.
enemy’s advanced weaponry.
Unlike the Epoch-class heavy carrier which
focuses on fleet actions, the Orion-class is intended
to serve as the focal point for planetary invasion and
defense. As such, its arms are mostly intended for
protecting itself during planetfall, and it relies heavily
on escorts and support vessels to do the work of
fighting ship-to-ship. Most Orion-class carriers were
lost during the fighting in the Outer Colonies, as the
UNSC struggled to adapt its strategy in the face of
rapid losses and a largely unknown foe. The few

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SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES
EPOCH-CLASS HEAVY CARRIER
Where assault carriers like the Orion-class and
Phoenix-class focus on getting troops and supplies to
the surface of a planet, the Epoch-class heavy carrier
serves as the mobile base of operations for fleet-to-
fleet combat. It has a massive ventral hangar and
considerable armaments to defend the fleet, including
numerous point defense systems and autocannons.
The biggest surprise is the carrier’s light MAC
gun. A variant of the standard Mk. II found on
corvettes and frigates, the Epoch-class has a version
capable of rapid-fire, though this robs the rounds of
some of their penetrating power. This enables the
carrier to sustain volleys of MAC rounds, though the
cannon is intended to be defensive in nature.
DEFENSE ARMOR
3 5
8 1 -4 220 195
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Manufacturer: SinoViet Heavy Machinery
▪ Complement: 1,300 crew
▪ Passenger Capacity: 800 passengers or troops
▪ Hangar Capacity: 36 dropships, 24 space fighters
▪ Requisition: N/A
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 10,000
▪ Consumables: Two years
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 2
▪ Weapons:
▫ 2 0 autocannons (Gunnery; Damage 2; Critical 3;
Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▫ 2 4 point defense guns (Gunnery; Damage 4;
Critical 3; Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▫ 1 4 naval coilgun batteries (Gunnery; Damage 5;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▫ 7 0 Archer missile pods (Gunnery; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Short range; Fire Arc All;
Guided 3, Linked 3)
▫ 2 0 Bident missile pods (Gunnery; Damage 7;
Critical 2; Long range; Fire Arc All; Guided 2,
Linked 3, Slow Firing 1)
▫ 1 keel-mounted Mk. II-LR MAC gun (Gunnery;
Damage 20; Critical 2; Extreme range;
Fire Arc Forward; Breach 1)
7 4 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
Additional Rules
▪ Massive 2: When making an attack targeting this
vessel, the critical rating of any weapons used
counts as 2 higher.
HALIFAX-CLASS ORBITAL DEFENSE PLATFORM
In their original design, orbital defense platforms
were used to house rapid response forces and
intercept asteroids that posed a risk to the planet.
They were never intended to be used against enemy
invasions, as the Insurrection was a mostly terrestrial
foe. However, like so many other things, the arrival
of the Covenant changed that.
The Halifax-class orbital defense platform was
the first to be developed to aid in the defense of the
colonies from Covenant forces. It possesses two
incredibly powerful MAC guns that can alternate fire,
cutting through enemy capital ships with ease. It also
serves as a deployment point for conventional forces
and search and rescue operations in the planet’s
orbit. Most Inner Colonies have anywhere between
one and a handful of these stations in orbit, protecting
the surface, but the planet Reach—which serves as
the fleet headquarters of the UNSC—has twenty.
However, this amount of firepower comes with
substantial drawbacks. The power requirements
are immense, to the point that there is no room on
the platform for the size of the reactor required. The
reactor has to be housed on the planet’s surface, with
the defense platform locked in a geosynchronous
orbit to allow for wireless transmission of the
required power. In one sense, this allows the station
to have a surplus of energy available, but that means
the platform can be neutralized if the groundside
reactor is disabled or destroyed.
The heavy MAC gun included in the profile is
unique to orbital defense platforms. No damage or
critical rating is listed; this is because the weapon
is so powerful it can destroy or severely cripple
virtually any vessel it strikes, regardless of armor
or shield. Taking out an enemy ship with it should
be treated as a narrative moment, rather than the
outcome of a roll.
DEFENSE ARMOR
3 4
9 N/A N/A
280 210
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING
HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
 SECTION 02. EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES

▪ Manufacturer: Vosper Engineering be treated as a narrative moment, rather than the

▪ Complement: 187 crew outcome of a roll.

▪ Passenger Capacity: 136 security personnel DEFENSE ARMOR

▪ Hangar Capacity: 14 dropships, 18 space fighters 3 5

▪ Requisition: N/A
9 N/A N/A
270 235
SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 16,000
▪ Consumables: Five years ▪ Manufacturer: Vosper Engineering
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 3 ▪ Complement: 152 crew
▪ Weapons: ▪ Passenger Capacity: 136 security personnel
▫ 1 2 point defense guns (Gunnery; Damage 4; ▪ Hangar Capacity: 10 dropships, 12 space fighters
Critical 3; Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
▪ Requisition: N/A
▫ 2 Mk. V Heavy MAC gun (Gunnery; Damage --;
▪ Encumbrance Capacity: 14,600
Critical --; Extreme range; Fire Arc Dorsal)
▪ Consumables: Three years
Additional Rules
▪ Customization Hardpoints: 2
▪ Massive 3: When making an attack targeting this
vessel, the critical rating of any weapons used ▪ Weapons:
counts as 3 higher. ▫ 7 point defense guns (Gunnery; Damage 4;
Critical 3; Close range; Fire Arc All; Auto-fire)
MONCTON-CLASS ORBITAL DEFENSE PLATFORM ▫ 1 Mk. V Heavy MAC gun (Gunnery; Damage --;
The Moncton-class orbital defense platform is touted Critical --; Extreme range; Fire Arc Dorsal)
as the next-generation planetary defense measure. Additional Rules
Improving on the design of the earlier Halifax-class
model, it does away with the planetside generators ▪ Massive 3: When making an attack targeting this
required to power its massive MAC gun. Instead, it vessel, the critical rating of any weapons used
has an onboard model, eliminating its predecessor’s counts as 3 higher.
vulnerability to enemy ground action. That design
decision also led to a trimming-down of the personnel
needed to run it, turning over more of the station’s
interior to the primary weapon’s support and fire
control, which in turn led to a slimmer frame.
The main difference is the focus on a single
MAC gun, meaning the platform performs best as
part of a cluster of two to five platforms. In theory,
this will allow for a more robust defense of a planet.
The Navy’s Home Fleet is currently overseeing
the construction of a new Earth defense grid that
will eventually feature over 300 geosynchronous
Moncton-class platforms.
The heavy MAC gun included in the profile is
unique to orbital defense platforms. No damage or
critical rating is listed; this is because the weapon
is so powerful it can destroy or severely cripple
virtually any vessel it strikes, regardless of armor
or shield. Taking out an enemy ship with it should

WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 75

SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
Most of the HALO games and secondary materials
focus on the Human-Covenant War, a period from
2525 to 2553, during which humanity comes face-to-
face with a number of interstellar threats. This war
has great potential for drama, heroics, and tragedy,
which are some of the best building blocks for telling
a great story.
Likewise, WINTER CONTINGENCY focuses on
this era, assuming that players will want to explore
the stories being told during this period. After all, it
includes the introduction of the SPARTAN program,
pitched battles against the Covenant, and exploration
of enigmatic Forerunner ruins—in short, everything
you might expect from a HALO game.
However, in case you are unfamiliar with the
history of humanity as presented in HALO or want to
explore some of these earlier eras, we have included
such information below. First, in “Per Mare, Per
Terras, Per Constellatum,” you can read about human
history overall—at least, as it is known to humans of
this time. (Keep your eyes peeled for a Forerunner-
focused theme sometime in the future, if you want to
know more about humans’ ancient history.) Then, in
“Human Organizations,” you can read more about the
various branches of the government and military that
is waging the war for survival.
The information below can also be used as
inspiration for other kinds of campaigns. Perhaps you
are interested in the rugged danger of attempting
to colonize new worlds in the time of humanity’s
expansion, or maybe you would like to experience
the moral grey area that is the Insurrection. Part of
the beauty of HALO is the universe’s size and depth,
allowing you to explore many different kinds of
stories, and we encourage you to do so.
If you are interested in the Covenant perspective
of the war, consider checking out the companion
to this theme, STATION & SALVATION, which also
includes the events of the Great Schism and the
sinister Flood as adversaries. If you are interested
in the post-war period of uncertain peace, look for
the forthcoming SPARTAN OPERATIONS, containing
new playable species and information on the
SPARTAN-IV program.
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Per Mare, Per Terras,
Per Constellatum
A HOME AMONG THE STARS
The story of humanity’s journey into space begins
in 2075, with the establishment of the Unified Earth
Government (UEG) as a first step towards colonizing
the solar system in 2080. The following decade is
tense as various nations on Earth—most of which are
not members of the United Nations and therefore not
party to the UEG’s combined prosperity agreements—
fight conventional wars for resources.
In 2158, the specter of interplanetary terrorism
emerges in the form of the Frieden movement, with
the bombing of an embassy in the city of Thynia on
Europa and triggering the Jovian Moons Campaign.
UN military forces hunt the Friedens for three months
while overpopulation concerns and political unrest on
Earth create additional dissident movements, such as
the Koslovics. The Rainforest Wars in South America
trigger further conflicts across the solar system, most
notably on Mars.
To try and control the outbreak of rebel
organizations, the UEG authorizes the creation
of the United Nations Space Command (UNSC)
as their primary military, scientific, and exploratory
agency. What follows is six years of fighting, called
the Interplanetary War, as the UNSC systematically
eliminates the various dissident factions and
establishes UEG control over the solar system.
After signing the Callisto Treaty of 2170 to
formally end hostilities, the UEG turns to the issue
of massive overpopulation. In order to manage the
increasing number of interplanetary colonies and
maintain Earth’s power, the UEG is granted full
autonomy in 2204.
Then, in 2291, the key to the stars is forged.
Together with a host of other researchers, Tobias
Shaw and Wallace Fujikawa create the Shaw-
Fujikawa Slipspace Drive. This invention allows
starships to tunnel into an alternate dimension
called “Slipspace” that has different physical laws
from our own, allowing faster-than-light travel

without relativistic side-effects. Some scientists note
an unexplained “flexibility” of time when traveling
within Slipspace, resulting in up to a ten-percent
variance in travel time. Despite this, both the UEG
and UNSC seize upon the Slipspace drive as a means
to ease the burden of overpopulation by establishing
interstellar colonies.
AGE OF EXPANSION
AND INSURRECTION
By 2310, the UEG unveils the first interstellar
colony ships equipped with Slipspace drives.
They establish the Colonial Administration Authority
(CAA) and the Colonial Military Authority (CMA) to
oversee these new colonies. Hundreds of settlements
are formed over the course of the next century on
new worlds orbiting unfamiliar stars. These initial
efforts eventually form the territory known as the
Inner Colonies.
Humanity continues to expand, and by 2429,
the Outer Colonies begin to be settled. These
colonists differ from the “first wave” in many key
respects, including relaxed recruiting standards and
a greater reliance on local resources, as opposed
to receiving technology and assistance from Earth.
Though terraforming technology is greatly improved,
the second-generation colonists often cannot afford
the latest models and are forced to rely on out-of-date
and secondhand technology. This leads to a frontier
attitude that eventually spells trouble.
Between 2475 and 2483, a number of civilian
uprisings against the CAA in the Outer Colonies
draws the UNSC’s attention. In 2487, two separate
movements—the People’s Occupation and the
Secessionist Union—submit formal requests for
independence on behalf of a dozen worlds. The
CMA responds with a military crackdown, triggering
further violence across the Outer Colonies.
However, by this point the balance of power
has changed. Humanity occupies over 800 worlds.
Earth and the Inner Colonies remain the political and
economic powerhouse of known space, but they rely
on the Outer Colonies for raw materials and industry.
The UNSC establishes its military headquarters on
the Inner Colony of Reach, which is already the site
of its largest shipyard and special forces training
facilities. The UNSC moves to assist the CMA—which
most of the UEG leadership suspects is full of rebel
sympathizers—with maintaining control.
SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
Then disaster strikes. In 2492, on the planet
Far Isle, the colony is declared too far gone by the
UNSC. It uses orbital nuclear strikes to annihilate all
population centers and raze the colony. Widespread
violence occurs as the news spreads to the Outer
Colonies. In 2494, the UNSC Callisto conducts
a routine inspection of a merchant vessel when
things take a tragic turn, resulting in UNSC Marines
opening fire on colonial civilians. The Callisto is later
hijacked by terrorists from Levosia, leading to a naval
confrontation with a UNSC battlegroup.
These two incidents together prove to be the final
straw. Various rebel groups ally themselves with
each other, forming the Insurrection movement and
demanding complete autonomy on behalf of the Outer
Colonies. Though not yet at the point of full-scale
interplanetary war, the conflict nevertheless becomes
a polarizing issue between Earth and her colonies.
The UEG’s suspicions turn out to be correct, as
the CMA is revealed to be supporting Insurrectionist
cells in 2497. This leads to the UNSC assuming
control of the CMA in all but name, systematically
replacing its leadership with officers of its own
choosing. As a side effect, nearly all diplomatic
negotiations with Insurrectionist groups are canceled
in favor of military action.
For the next quarter-century, the UNSC expands
its power and influence in the Outer Colonies while
it fights the Insurrection. Trust in Earth and the UEG
erodes to the point that even ostensibly loyal worlds
react with hate and suspicion to the UNSC. Analysts
with the Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) predict that,
without drastic measures, Earth will lose control of
the Outer Colonies in a matter of years, leading to the
decline of the human species in space.
The situation seems untenable.
THE COVENANT
In February of 2525, contact is lost with the Outer
Colony world of Harvest. Initially suspecting
communications failure, the CMA dispatches a single
frigate to investigate, but it fails to report back. Now
on alert for Insurrectionist activity, the UNSC sends
an entire battlegroup.
Months later, only a single ship returns, badly
damaged and bringing word of a massive unknown
vessel armed with advanced weaponry and protected
by an energy shield. It wiped out both the colony
and the other CMA ships. Before allowing the last
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SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR

survivors to escape, this new enemy broadcast a DESPERATE TIMES

message in English:
A costly pattern emerges. The UNSC is forced to
“Your destruction is the will of the gods. And we
retreat as the Covenant destroys human worlds. As
are their instrument.”
they enter the Inner Colonies, however, Covenant
As the UNSC rushes to understand this new
ground engagements become more common. ONI
threat, more Outer Colonies go dark. The Insurrection
is able to determine that, in addition to seeking
initially blames the UNSC and refuses to listen to
humanity’s utter destruction, the Covenant is
warnings, leading to further violence. Without a
searching for remnants belonging to an advanced
unified response, the Outer Colonies are easy pickings
alien civilization that existed over 100,000 years ago.
for the first few years. The UNSC swiftly dissolves
The Covenant calls them the Forerunners, treating
what remains of the CMA.
their artifacts as holy relics.
By 2526, the UNSC understands their foe is a
In addition, the UNSC finds considerable success
coalition of alien races calling itself the Covenant.
in the Spartan Program. Originally developed to fight
They utilize far more advanced technology than
the Insurrection, Spartans are augmented humans
humanity has access to. Space engagements quickly
equipped with advanced MJOLNIR Powered Assault
prove out Covenant dominance, as UNSC vessels
Armor, and their existence is highly classified. The
can only achieve victory if they outnumber their
SPARTAN-IIs were deployed as early as 2525, but the
enemy three-to-one, and even then, only after great
SPARTAN-IIIs followed in 2536. Though their numbers
cost. Furthermore, the Covenant has the ability and
are too few to sway the overall war, the Spartans are
disposition to destroy human settlements from orbit
very effective against high-value Covenant targets.
using plasma bombardments. This process comes to
Rumors of their existence circulate on the front line,
be known as “glassing” due to the effect of fusing the
and they provide a much-needed morale boost.
silicates in the planet’s crust.
Another welcome if unexpected turn is
Though the UNSC can go toe-to-toe with
reconciliation with the Insurrectionists. Now keenly
the Covenant in ground engagements, those
aware of the true threat of the Covenant, many
engagements are rare, and the enemy’s objectives
former rebel organizations join the defense of the
are not clear. ONI does everything in its power to
UNSC. Some do so out of a sense of duty, while
gather intelligence on the aliens, but progress is
others quietly negotiate favorable terms should they
slow, and the Covenant seems to have considerable
win the war. Though some rebels still take advantage
knowledge of humanity.
of the chaos to wage a private war with the UNSC, the
After the first few years of conflict, it becomes
Insurrection as a movement is reduced to a shadow
clear that the UNSC is losing ground at an
of its former self.
unsustainable pace. The admiralty enacts the
By the late 2540s, ONI becomes aware that
Cole Protocol, a directive designed to prevent the
leadership of the Covenant belongs to a species
Covenant from discovering the location of Earth
known as the Prophets. They begin forming a plan
and other population centers. It requires any ship
using combined Spartan, Navy, and Marine assets, in
engaging the Covenant to delete its astronavigational
which a task force would seize control of a Covenant
database, and forbids any vessel escaping the
vessel and use it to infiltrate Covenant space. There,
Covenant from jumping directly to any occupied
they would locate and abduct one of the Covenant’s
system. Finally, if boarded, every ship is to self-
top officials, a Hierarch, and return it to human space.
destruct rather than allow the Covenant to access
The UNSC could then negotiate a cease-fire. ONI
potentially sensitive information aboard.
analysts determined that kidnapping was necessary,
The Cole Protocol slows but does not stop the
as an assassination would likely fire up the Covenant
Covenant advance. It does, however, buy the UNSC
and lead to an escalation of the conflict, which
valuable time to gather intelligence and formulate
humanity would not survive.
a strategy. Nevertheless, humanity continues to fall
Codenamed RED FLAG, preparations are
back in the face of the Covenant’s inexorable might,
currently underway at Reach to carry out this
and by 2535 nearly all of the Outer Colonies have
incredibly risky operation. It’s believed that success
been destroyed.
hinges on three factors: a smart AI with highly

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advanced infiltration protocols, no fewer than twenty-
five Spartan operators equipped with MJOLNIR
armor, and a suitably valuable human world that
can be used as bait to draw in the Covenant ships
necessary to begin. The admiralty is hesitant to give
final approval given the high costs and high risks, but
as more worlds fall every day, the window is closing.
Where once humanity could lay claim to 800
systems, by the year 2551 there are now only a few
dozen remaining colonies, most of which are presently
overburdened with refugees and pushed close to
collapse as their industries continue to remain
focused on the war. With the Covenant pressing their
advance and pushing closer and closer to Earth itself,
most analysts believe the UNSC’s remaining time is
best measured in months, not years.
Human Organizations
Humanity is not a monolith, and as such the number
of organizations and associations that exist within
human space is uncountable. However, it is generally
accepted that there are three major influential
powers in human-controlled space: the Unified Earth
Government, the United Nations Space Command,
and the Insurrection.
UNIFIED EARTH GOVERNMENT
First established in 2075, the original Unified Earth
Government was just an administrative branch of
the United Nations. The next century saw its mission
of introducing universal laws and rights sidelined
repeatedly as wars for Earth’s dwindling resources
consumed the solar system. It was not until the
Callisto Treaty of 2170 that the UEG’s agency was
restored, and it was granted full autonomy as the
official government of human space in 2204.
The UEG is a representative democracy, with its
capital located in Sydney, Australia. It is composed
of three co-equal branches of government: the
executive, controlled by the president; the legislative,
made up of the senate; and the judicial, the highest
level of which is the Earth Supreme Court. The
president and senators are elected by the citizens
of the UNSC, with each senator representing an
individual human-occupied world—though some
worlds choose to combine their representation under
a single senator.
SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
The UEG claims governing authority over all
humanity and its settlements, though it established
the Colonial Administration Authority to oversee the
administration of the colonies. Since its autonomy
was granted at the beginning of the 23rd century,
it has since absorbed the United Nations into its
bureaucracy as an Earth-specific administrative arm.
In the late 25th century, the UEG was in a crisis
due to the Insurrection. Multiple administrations
attempted to handle the outbreak of violence in
the Outer Colonies to varying degrees of failure,
with some suffering scandals and independent
investigations due to the perceived brutality of
the ongoing conflict. A movement known as One
Humanity formed in order to advocate for the colonies
on Earth, hoping to resolve the issue peacefully, but it
never got the chance. With the arrival of the Covenant
and the rapid loss of colonies to enemy action, the
UNSC declared martial law and seized control over
the apparatus of government.
By 2551, there have been major changes.
While the UEG still maintains the appearance of
power, holding regular elections and legislating
the government, it largely serves as a rubber
stamp for the UNSC. Civilian traffic off-world has
been forbidden, with the only exceptions being for
refugee transports and trade necessary to continue
interstellar commerce. The citizens are kept placated
by a steady diet of propaganda, which acknowledges
the difficulty of wartime life but promises that the
enemy is far away, even as colonies closer and closer
to Earth are glassed.
UEG officials and politicians can still be found
traveling, but it is almost always aboard a military
vessel. They oversee special projects, carry out
investigations, and generally try to keep the
population calm. These individuals require a military
escort, while others may have special authority to
assign missions and tasks to particular units. While it
is hoped that the military will prove victorious, it is an
open secret that some of these officials are creating
contingency plans for if Earth and the UEG are lost,
and humanity needs to find a new home. Whether
those plans will be necessary is unknown, but every
day the outlook grows darker.
COLONIAL ADMINISTRATION AUTHORITY
Established by the UEG in 2310, the Colonial
Administration Authority was created to oversee the
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SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
colonies, regulating them and acting as a secondary
governing body that was more accessible to colonial
citizens than the distant Earth. In this manner, it was
a success: the CAA managed hundreds of planets
and billions of people, doing everything in its power
to make everyone feel heard. It also oversaw the
colonization effort of new planets.
However, as the number of human worlds grew
and the strain on the system increased, with little
additional support being routed from the UEG, failure
seemed inevitable. The Insurrection became a black
mark on the CAA’s record, one which the UNSC used
to take more and more control away from it. The Far
Isle incident of 2492 was the beginning of the end,
as Earth-based political and military organizations
supplanted the role of the CMA and began responding
to every colonial dispute with a show of force.
The CAA attempted to fight this gradual takeover,
but the UEG sided with the military. When the UNSC
used the Covenant’s arrival as an excuse to declare
martial law across the Orion Arm, the CAA again
resisted and was stripped of its power. It remains
in name only, putting out an annual factbook about
the colonies.
The CAA had its own intelligence service,
the Department of Colonial Security, which was
concerned with monitoring the Inner and Outer
Colonies. They predicted the rise in tensions between
the UEG and the colonies, including that Far Isle
would become a bastion for independence-minded
rebels. However, their initial report was ignored by
the UNSC. Following the arrival of the Covenant, DCS
was dissolved and its intelligence apparatus was
absorbed by the Office of Naval Intelligence.
Current CAA personnel are almost exclusively
bureaucrats with no real power, who answer to the
UNSC and their policies. CAA offices on the colonies
are now little more than information hubs where
people can go to find out more information about
other human-occupied worlds and how they are
faring in the war, as well as keeping track of refugee
lists—which is an increasingly difficult task. Anyone
who had a genuine interest in the wellbeing of the
colonies has since been dismissed and joined either
the UNSC or the Insurrection.
COLONIAL MILITARY AUTHORITY
The Colonial Military Authority was established
simultaneously with the CAA by the UNSC.
8 0 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
As their concern up to that point had largely been
with Earth and the Solar system, the admiralty
preferred to establish a separate command to
handle the protection of the colonies. The original
ORION supersoldier program began under the
CMA’s direction, but poor results saw it being
shelved indefinitely.
After 2390, with the CMA expanding its
operations into the nascent Outer Colonies, the
UNSC’s Naval Command and Unified Ground
Command began trying to usurp the CMA’s position.
Their attitude towards the colonies had changed as
it became apparent that the balance of power was
shifting away from Earth. Rather than continue to
delegate the responsibility, NAVCOM and UNICOM
wanted to reclaim it. However, the founding charter
of the CMA afforded them command, and the UNSC’s
expansion into the colonies was slow.
In addition, the CMA had come to see itself as
a more courageous and daring organization when
compared to the UNSC. They embraced the frontier
attitude of the latest wave of colonists and came to
view their efforts of “taming” these new worlds as
heroic. This attitude led to deepening resentment
within the ranks towards the UEG, and by the late
25th century it proved to be fertile ground for the
Insurrection to sow its ideals. In 2497, it came out
that leaders within the CMA had been covertly
supplying the Insurrection with arms and information.
It was all the justification the UNSC needed to begin
siphoning the CMA’s resources away to NAVCOM and
UNICOM. In just a few short years, the CMA was an
empty shell.
When the Covenant arrived in 2525, the UNSC did
away with the pretense entirely and folded the CMA’s
scant remaining resources into its main organization.
The only official CMA personnel remaining are
wounded veterans and those considered unfit for
combat, tending to deep-space COM buoys and
manning remote fueling depots.
Nevertheless, the frontier spirit of the CMA
survives in the Insurrection. Many insurgents proudly
wear their parents’ and grandparents’ uniforms,
claiming to be the last line of defense between the
colonies and tyranny. Ironically, one major decision by
the CMA continues to define the UNSC: the adoption
of the iconic M12 Warthog, which the CMA made
standard in 2321 and was enthusiastically supported
by the UNSC.

UNITED NATIONS SPACE COMMAND
The United Nations Space Command was created
to tackle the logistical difficulties inherent in
interplanetary conflict, and at that they have
succeeded. Though the Insurrection is fairly seen as
a problem of the UNSC’s own making, the war with
the Covenant has involved a staggering degree of
sacrifice and struggle. In many ways, the hardships
of the Insurrection left the UNSC more prepared to
fight the hegemonic alien threat than they would have
been otherwise.
The UNSC is presently split into four branches,
with the Office of Naval Intelligence forming an
unofficial fifth. These branches are organized into
two categories: Naval Command (NAVCOM) and
Unified Ground Command (UNICOM), both of which
report to UNSC High Command (HIGHCOM). Details
regarding each of these branches can be found
below, with the purpose of NAVCOM and UNICOM
being to unite the operations in a particular theater
under a single chain of command. This cuts down on
jurisdictional squabbles, though inter-branch rivalries
are inevitable.
Military organization has never been clean-cut,
and with the ongoing war each branch has various
special projects and divisions, each working on the
“magic bullet” that will end hostilities.
NAVY
The UNSC Navy is the primary operating force
under NAVCOM and is responsible for warship
operations in space. They fight in fleet actions,
protect supply convoys and research stations, and
coordinate with the Marine Corps and Air Force for
the delivery of forces and personnel to vital theaters
of war. It is subdivided into three commands: Fleet
Command (FLEETCOM), Logistical Operational
Command (LOGCOM), and Navy Special Warfare
(NAVSPECWAR).
The Navy is headquartered on Reach, the largest
fleet base and shipyard in human space. There, they
maintain facilities to train both Navy and Marine
personnel, as well as the Reach Naval Academy to
train officers. Members of the Navy typically serve
aboard spaceborne vessels, though they still maintain
terrestrial “wet” operations. These crews carry out
a variety of missions, depending on which command
they are assigned to. This can range from protecting a
supply caravan to interdiction and search and rescue.
SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
Over the course of the war, the Navy has
suffered the most losses of any service branch.
Fleets are organized according to their sectors,
which includes groupings of Inner and Outer Colony
systems. However, the steady destruction of human
settlements and depletion of the Navy’s fleets has
rendered these distinctions moot. It is understood
that the Navy can no longer carry out offensive
operations without leaving Earth or its remaining
colonies defenseless. This has led to a shift in
priorities as the Navy takes care to follow the Cole
Protocol and prevent the Covenant from discovering
the remaining population centers. How long these
measures will remain effective is unknown.
FLEETCOM
The Navy’s Fleet Command is headquartered in New
Alexandria on Reach and is responsible for ship
deployment, mission structures, and space operations
in the UNSC. It also serves as the home for the Navy’s
Criminal Investigation Division, which is responsible
for investigating crimes perpetrated by and against
Navy and Marine personnel. Crews who serve under
FLEETCOM are typically engaged in direct action
against the Covenant or rebels, though they could be
engaged in reconnaissance or infiltration operations
as well. Officers of the CID investigate potential
crimes within the Navy, gathering evidence and
interrogating witnesses and suspects before deciding
whether to bring charges.
TABLE 3-1: NAVCOM ENLISTED
RANK STRUCTURE
RANK CODE RANK
E-1 Crewman Recruit (CR)
E-2 Crewman Apprentice (CA)
E-3 Crewman (CR)
E-4 Petty Officer Third Class (PO3)
E-5 Petty Officer Second Class (PO2)
E-6 Petty Officer First Class (PO1)
E-7 Chief Petty Officer (CPO)
E-8 Senior Chief Petty Officer (SCPO)
E-9 Master Chief Petty Officer (MCPO)
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LOGCOM TABLE 3-2: NAVCOM OFFICER

Logistical Operations Command carries out the RANK STRUCTURE
construction and maintenance of all navy ships,
from its smallest space fighters and corvettes to its RANK CODE RANK
massive battleships and carriers, as well as food
and ammunition. They also maintain an Office of OT Cadet (CDT)
Investigations, responsible for looking into supply WO-1 Warrant Officer (WO)
shortages and instances of sabotage. LOGCOM crews
may be transporting materials important to the WO-2 Chief Warrant Officer (CWO)
war effort, or else they might be manning the ships O-1 Ensign (ENS)
protecting those transports.
O-2 Lieutenant Junior-Grade (LTJG)

NAVSPECWAR O-3 Lieutenant (LT)

Naval Special Warfare Command is a major special O-4 Lieutenant Commander (LCDR)
forces division in the Navy, serving as the umbrella
O-5 Commander (CDR)
under which the ODSTs and the SPARTAN-II
and SPARTAN-III programs exist, among others. O-6 Captain (CAPT)
Personnel within NAVSPECWAR engage in the
O-7 Rear Admiral (RADM)
research and development of new weapons, ships,
and other technologies that could be used to turn the O-8 Vice Admiral (VADM)
tide of war against the Covenant. They maintain a
O-9 Admiral (ADM)
healthy but strong rivalry with ONI, which they see as
still being technically subordinate to the Navy, though O-10 Fleet Admiral (FADM)
in practice this is not the case.

simultaneously developed MJOLNIR Powered Assault

Search and Rescue
Descended from the planetary Coast Guards of Earth,
Search and Rescue (SAR) is a specialty division
within the UNSC Navy’s fleet. Prior to the war
with the Covenant, their ships and personnel were
dedicated to two primary missions: responding to
civilian and military distress calls and conducting
boarding and interdiction operations against known
and suspected criminals. The current war has not
seen a reduction in those tasks (though interstellar
civilian traffic is rare) but it has added an additional
area for SAR to undertake: Cole Protocol compliance.
SPARTAN-II Program
The SPARTAN-II program was masterminded by Dr.
Catherine Halsey, who was commissioned by ONI in
2511 to develop a supersoldier program that could
bring an end to the Insurrection. Her plan involved
the conscription of genetically ideal six-year-old
candidates who would spend several years training
and preparing for a series of augmentations that
allowed them to perform superhuman feats. She
Armor, a strength- and reflex-enhancing armor system
that would increase their abilities even further.
The first group of 75 candidates was conscripted
in 2517. They spent eight years training before
undergoing the augmentation procedures. During this
time, the candidates were taught not only the art of
war but also the difference between right and wrong.
While this inspired some to mutiny against the
program, the majority came to see their situation as
necessary to preserve the future of humanity. Only 44
of the candidates successfully passed augmentation,
with the rest “washing out” after being crippled or
killed by the surgeries.
These Spartans were first deployed in 2525
against Insurrectionist targets, but the arrival of
the Covenant led to a change in the mission. The
Spartans proved to be highly effective against this
new threat, winning key victories, but ultimately
their numbers were too few to halt the Covenant’s
advance. Between the strict genetic requirements
for augmentation and the ethical issues raised by the
program, it was decided that the SPARTAN-II program
would be discontinued after the first class.

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 SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR

However, by 2537 improvements to the capacities, depending on their skills. It is not

augmentation procedures that led to a relaxing of uncommon to see an Army team deploying alongside
the requirements and a desperation brought on by the Marines on the ground, as their devotion to
the UNSC’s rapid losses led to a change of heart. A terrestrial combat makes them experts in that area.
new class of candidates was conscripted and brought Some serve as liaisons to the Navy and ONI, keeping
to Reach to train, this time without Dr. Halsey’s them apprised of how the Army can assist them
knowledge or guidance. These Spartans completed during their operations.
their training and augmentations in 2545 with a
higher (but not total) success rate and entered the Airborne
field in the same year.
ONI Directive 920 states that, to preserve morale Some might argue the airborne units have been
among UNSC forces, Spartan casualties are to be overshadowed by the glory-seeking ODSTs, but within
listed as Missing In Action (MIA) or Wounded In the Army they are still considered to be among the
Action (WIA), but never Killed In Action (KIA). This best soldiers around. Troopers who train with the
has led to the unofficial motto, “Spartans never airborne serve as rapid response units, fast-roping
die.” ONI chose in 2547 to selectively declassify the from UH-144 Falcons or parachuting into battle from
SPARTAN-II program, revealing their existence and the backs of Pelican dropships.
their stellar combat record but continuing to cloak Within the airborne, Pathfinders are regarded as
the conscription of children and the program’s origin the finest reconnaissance experts in the field. They
as an anti-Insurrection unit. deploy ahead of airborne drops in order to mark
drop zones and gather intelligence on terrain, enemy
forces, and local disposition. As such, they deploy in
ARMY small teams or sometimes alone in order to avoid
The UNSC Army deals exclusively with planetary, detection, inserting in the dead of night and operating
land-based military operations under UNICOM. Unlike under a strict COMs blackout. They use an improved
the Marine Corps, which operates on multiple planets variant of the standard ODST helmet.
in conjunction with the Navy, the Army serves in a
garrison role on individual worlds. This makes it a
key part of the UNSC Defense Force.
Army recruits are typically garrisoned on their
planet of origin, returning after attending basic and TABLE 3-3: UNICOM ENLISTED
advanced training on Reach, though some may seek RANK STRUCTURE
postings on other worlds. Their duties are mostly
concerned with the defense of their assigned planet RANK CODE RANK
from pirates and criminals and acting as the first
line of defense against the Covenant. Though they E-1 Private (PVT)
have no spaceborne vessels, the Army maintains E-2 Private First Class (PFC)
its own aircraft and pilots, cross-trained with their
counterparts in the UNSC Air Force, though this has Lance Corporal Specialist
E-3
also nurtured a strong rivalry. (LCPL) (SPC)
Though its accomplishments are many, arguably E-4 Corporal (CPL)
the most famous part of the standard Army are its
E-5 Sergeant (SGT)
armored divisions. They field skilled crews and test
the latest hardware, giving them a strong advantage E-6 Staff Sergeant (SSGT)
in ground engagements. They frequently train up and
E-7 Gunnery Sergeant (GYSGT)
assist Marine armored units, owing to their mutual
membership in UNICOM. Master Sergeant First Sergeant
E-8
While most Army personnel remain in their (MSGT) (1SGT)
home garrison, others are rotated to stations on Master Gunnery Sergeant Major
other planets or lent to other branches in advisory E-9
Sergeant (MGSGT) (SGTMAJ)

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SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
Corps of Engineers
The Army Corps of Engineers handles all manner
of technical and architectural assignments, from
rebuilding civilian infrastructure and demolishing
enemy emplacements to reverse-engineering
Covenant technology based on equipment captured in
the field. They are renowned for their detail-oriented
personalities and their calm under fire, as having
to repair a mobile bridge during combat demands a
certain level of cool-headedness.
Rangers
The Rangers are the Army’s most famous special
forces unit. An elite cadre of infantry, they are
primarily trained as long-range scouts. They place
sensors behind enemy lines and use sniper teams to
observe the enemy and eliminate high-value targets.
They are also trained in a wide variety of weapons,
including Covenant firearms.
During the war with the Covenant, they have
also served as advisors for local resistance elements
on occupied worlds, training locals to conduct guerilla
campaigns. For many Rangers, this is a one-way
assignment, as the only way off-world is to drive
off the Covenant and hold out for UNSC rescue—
an unlikely prospect at best.
MARINE CORPS
The UNSC Marine Corps is the expeditionary combat
arm of UNICOM, coordinating with the Navy to
rapidly deploy to theaters where they are needed.
They also serve as security forces on Navy ships
and installations. Due to their frequent and varied
deployments, the Marine Corps is the face of the
UNSC’s recruitment efforts.
Marines train at facilities located on Reach.
Once their training is complete, they are berthed
aboard ships and stations and deployed to distant
worlds to fight back the Covenant advance. They field
standard infantry, armor, and air and space vehicles,
in addition to the occasional watercraft. Marines are
expected to be proficient in all theaters, able to switch
from one to the next as the situation demands. This
flexibility has earned them a reputation as the most
capable fighting force in human history.
Found across the entire front line, Marines fill
virtually every role you might expect, but they are
always prepared to pick up a rifle and fight. Most
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Marines engage in conventional warfare, which
might mean large-scale operations or smaller-scale
infiltrations or intelligence-gathering. Whatever they
are asked to do, expect that they will do it well.
Corps of Engineers
The Marine Corps of Engineers operates much the
same as the Army’s, focusing on construction and
demolition in the field. Unlike the Army, however,
the Marines have a greater emphasis on combat
applications as opposed to civilian infrastructure.
Among their tasks are the protection and, if
necessary, destruction of classified research and
development outposts. They are also known for their
development and operation of combat exoskeletons.
Force Recon
Conducting reconnaissance of the enemy and relaying
vital intelligence to Marine commanders is the role
of Force Recon. Their name describes their role
well: their job is to gather intelligence on enemy
force, strength, and location, as well as to carry out
direct action ahead of standard military operations,
if required. They also collect information on relevant
conditions, such as terrain and weather, that might
have an impact on upcoming operations.
There are dedicated Force Recon companies
in both the regular Marines and the Orbital Drop
Shock Troopers, with the latter being deployed ahead
of a vanguard force. Additionally, ONI Section One
often has a presence in Force Recon, their agents
helping to compare new intel with known information
and ensuring high-priority intel is relayed to the
right people.
Orbital Drop Shock Troopers
While technically existing under the Navy Special
Warfare umbrella, the Orbital Drop Shock Troopers
are the Marines’ special forces and rapid reaction
force. They were first formed and deployed during
the Interplanetary War in the 2160s, including their
now-famous Martian Campaign. Since then, they
have been at the front line of every military conflict,
including both the Insurrection and the Human-
Covenant War.
ODSTs are distinguished by their unique method
of insertion: single occupant drop pods called SOEIVs
are launched from Navy ships in orbit, carrying the
 SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR

ODSTs safely (though not without risk) to the ground TABLE 3-4: UNICOM OFFICER
with a combination of drag chutes and braking
thrusters. Each ODST is expected to leave their pod
RANK STRUCTURE
ready for combat, giving them an advantage in speed
RANK CODE RANK
and surprise that few other units enjoy. This has led
to their operational nickname: the Helljumpers. OT Cadet (CDT)
Membership in the ODSTs is reserved for Marine
WO-1 Warrant Officer (WO)
volunteers who have met the high standards for
service and bravery required to be invited to apply. WO-2 Chief Warrant Officer (CWO)
After that, candidates must pass a difficult selection
O-1 Second Lieutenant (2LT)
and training program that helps ensure the ODSTs
remain one of humanity’s most elite fighting forces. O-2 First Lieutenant (1LT)
Graduates are then allowed to don the distinctive
O-3 Captain (CPT)
black armor and mirrored visors of the ODSTs.
ODSTs are sent on a variety of dangerous O-4 Major (MAJ)
missions, from direct action and counter-terrorism
O-5 Lieutenant Colonel (LTCOL)
operations to deep ground surveillance and
unconventional warfare. They divide themselves up O-6 Colonel (COL)
into combat teams, ten to fourteen operators who
O-7 Brigadier General (BGEN)
live, train, and fight together. This ensures a tight
team dynamic and the ability to share roles and O-8 Major General (MGEN)
specialties freely. However, when members of the
O-9 Lieutenant General (LTGEN)
team are killed, this often means replacements face
challenges when learning how to integrate. O-10 General (GEN)
Next to Spartans, ODSTs are considered the
best of the best. The two organizations have a
deep and uncomfortable rivalry, stemming from an
early incident in which several ODSTs attempted
to jump a Spartan trainee and were killed. Despite In combat with the Covenant, the Air Force
the animosity, many ODSTs have served alongside struggles much the same way as the Navy, as they
Spartans in combat and later admitted the Spartans attempt to compete with the advanced technology
were formidable fighters. of the Covenant. Their energy shields appear to be
equipped on almost every type of vehicle, meaning
AIR FORCE each Air Force pilot has to be trained in multiple
weapons systems that can be changed up depending
The UNSC Air Force is the final component of UNICOM on the foe. However, there is no doubt that these are
and is responsible for aerial and orbital combat the most daring pilots in any branch of the UNSC,
and defense. Its soldiers maintain a wide range with their skills in high demand.
of fighters, bombers, and interceptors, as well as
the orbital MAC platforms that defend a number
Air Combat Command
of important Inner Colony worlds. The Air Force’s
responsibilities include monitoring civilian aerial Air Combat Command (ACC) oversees deployment
and orbital activity and providing launch and space of all manner of combat aircraft. This includes
support for the Navy and the Marines. fighters and bombers to carry out air superiority
Like the other branches of the UNSC, basic operations, as well as gunships and other aircraft to
training for the Air Force begins on Reach, with act as air support for UNICOM personnel. ACC is also
additional training opportunities elsewhere. It responsible for developing and testing new design
maintains the primary flight school for all branches, projects for flight-capable technology in the air, at
training Army, Navy, and Marine pilots as well in the sub-orbital altitudes, and in orbit.
operation of cross-service craft such as dropships.

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SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
Air Mobility Express
During warfare, it is the responsibility of the Air
Mobility Express (AMX) section to airlift and transport
materiel and personnel. It maintains the aircraft and
pilots required to carry out this duty across multiple
worlds, able to move supplies and people wherever
they need to go. This includes dropship operations
for the other service branches, resupply drops, and
planetary evacuations.
Orbital Defense Command
While famously responsible for manning and
operating massive orbital defense platforms in
geosynchronous orbit above UEG colonies, the Orbital
Defense Command also oversees deployment of
space fighters, interdiction craft, and search and
rescue units. They work closely with the Navy, as
their coordinated efforts are the first—and often the
only—line of defense for vulnerable colony worlds.
Pararescue Service
The UNSC’s Pararescue Service (PRS) serves as a
planetary search and rescue unit, carrying out both
combat and humanitarian rescues as needed. PRS
personnel (nicknamed PJs) undergo rigorous training,
including with the Army Airborne and the Navy dive
school, in order to be able to handle any and all
rescue conditions when deployed.
Their most famous (or infamous) duty is the
recovery of pilots and other high-value personnel
from behind enemy lines. PJs are typically deployed
in pairs or small teams to locate and extract these
individuals; they are trained to understand that their
own lives are secondary concerns to saving others.
For this reason, PRS personnel are afforded the
highest respect by the other service branches, as
they might be the ones to rescue them when things
have gone terribly wrong.
OFFICE OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE
Though ostensibly subordinate to the Navy, ONI
has operated as its own branch for decades. It
has been part of the UNSC since the beginning,
responsible for gathering intelligence through
fieldwork and signals interception, as well as running
counterespionage and propaganda operations and
conducting top-secret research and development.
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Its agents have a deserved reputation within
the UNSC of being deceitful, manipulative, and
independent of standard oversight.
ONI’s characterization as “the spooks” began well
before the Insurrection, though they reached infamous
levels during the conflict. ONI agents became
bogeymen, seen in every shadow and suspected in
every new face seen around town. How deeply they
managed to infiltrate the various rebel organizations
remains classified, even after the de-facto end to
hostilities with the arrival of an alien menace.
In pivoting to face the Covenant threat, ONI fast-
tracked intelligence gathering operations in order
to learn as much and as quickly as possible about
their new enemy. They also repurposed a number of
ongoing secret projects, including the SPARTAN-II
program, towards winning the war. While the rest of
the UNSC suffered setback after setback in the first
decade of fighting, ONI was able to gather critical
intelligence and begin the process of formulating
effective strategies to stall their advance.
There are two aspects to ONI. The first is the
public face, which is made up of both uniformed and
civilian personnel. They work openly in a variety of
positions within ONI’s numerous sections, interfacing
with their counterparts in the other branches,
delivering briefings, and conducting what is mostly
seen as above-board research and development.
The second aspect is the shadowed underbelly,
the covert agents and infiltrators who labor in secret
to save as many lives as possible. Whether they are
lightyears behind enemy lines or hidden in plain sight
among the ranks of other branches, these individuals
act as the all-important fulcrum when the time comes
to act. It could be a careful word to the right person,
a data worm in an innocent-looking line of code, or a
silent knife across an unsuspecting throat; no matter
the case, these agents are prepared to do what is
necessary to make sure humankind survives this
crisis to rise up once again.
Section One
ONI Section One is the information-gathering arm
of the service, making it the one all UNSC forces
interact with. They provide briefings ahead of major
operations, conduct fieldwork to intercept enemy
intelligence or seed counter-intelligence for them
to find, and maintain a vast array of listening posts,
unmanned COM buoys, and stealthed ships that

serve to monitor Covenant activity and provide an
early warning before they strike. They also oversee
any and all missions behind enemy lines, to ensure
that critical information is gained and that nothing
important falls into enemy hands.
Section Two
ONI Section Two is the propaganda arm, working
within the military and with civilians to maintain
morale across human space. They employ a number
of journalists, artists, and designers who put the
shine on victories and take the sting out of defeats.
They also conduct psychological operations meant
to bolster the spirits of front-line troops and, when
possible, demoralize the enemy. More controversially,
they handle the sanitizing and distribution of key
intelligence when shared with other organizations,
including sometimes within the UNSC itself.
Section Three
ONI Section Three functions as a special projects
division, and as such most of its activity is
classified and hidden from view. Their research and
development labs are scattered all across human
space, as they labor in secret to come up with new
weapons, defenses, technologies, and strategies
to fight back against the Covenant and prevent
humanity’s extinction. Most of their personnel are
career military, but civilians who have special fields
of study are sometimes brought in. Section Three has
overseen many famous programs, including MJOLNIR
and both SPARTAN-II and -III, as well as countless
others that have never been publicly acknowledged.
Section Zero
Section Zero serves as ONI’s internal affairs division,
ensuring that the other sections act ethically and with
proper oversight. Its very existence is secret, though
the existence of “spies who watch the spies” has long
been rumored. Their membership is classified at the
highest level, though they only intervene if there are
no alternatives, and they almost never do so directly.
Prowler Corps
One of ONI’s most capable tools is its fleet of
prowlers: stealth-capable warships that can infiltrate
enemy space and carry out secret operations.
SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
While they are often deployed alongside the Navy,
the dedicated crews are members of ONI trained
to operate the sensitive and classified systems
necessary to maintain stealth. Though most prowlers
are corvettes, the term actually applies to any
vessel with stealth capabilities, and rumors persist
of cruiser-class prowlers hunting Covenant supply
depots deep behind their lines.
Signal Corps
The ONI Signal Corps is a project of Section One.
They use Navy ships and crews to distribute COM
buoys throughout space that can be used to draw
Covenant ships away from human population centers,
obfuscate legitimate human broadcasts, and intercept
and relay enemy transmissions. This type of counter-
intelligence operation has proven to be extremely
valuable at a comparatively low cost and risk, as it
has confused and slowed the Covenant as it moves
deeper into the Inner Colonies.
SPARTAN-III Program
Assembled under ONI Section Three’s Beta-5 Division,
the SPARTAN-III program was a response to the
limits of the SPARTAN-IIs. Their goal was to produce
entire battalions of supersoldiers, though even with
relaxed genetic requirements and much safer and
simplified augmentation procedures they have only
produced two companies so far.
SPARTAN-III candidates are selected from
the horde of war orphans created thanks to the
Covenant, both sidestepping some of the ethical
complications of kidnapping and conscripting
children and ensuring each candidate is motivated
by revenge rather than an indoctrinated sense of
duty. The training and augmentation that follows is
modeled on that of the SPARTAN-IIs, though advances
to the augmentation process have ensured 100%
survivability for selected candidates. Finally, to cut
costs, SPARTAN-IIIs receive Semi-Powered Infiltration
armor, less powerful than MJOLNIR but with the
tradeoff of higher stealth capabilities.
The 497 candidates for Alpha Company were
assembled in 2531. Only 300 officially entered the
rolls for augmentation and active duty in 2536, but
a number were secretly taken off the register to be
trained as Headhunters—two-person teams who
would operate exclusively behind enemy lines—
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SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
or given MJOLNIR armor due to their extremely
high combat scores. The remaining “washouts”
served as instructors for the second group of
candidates which followed soon after. Beta Company
was assembled in 2539 out of 418 candidates,
winnowed down by selection to 300 in 2544 but again
with some removed from the main company for
special purposes. The most recent group, Gamma
Company, is currently being trained. 330 candidates
were brought to the planet Onyx to train in 2547,
with a projected graduation date of 2552. Unlike
their predecessors, it is expected that all 330 will
be augmented and deployed.
The lower costs and higher number of Spartans
produced by SPARTAN-III means that ONI sees
them as more expendable (though no less valuable)
than the SPARTAN-IIs. Teams of SPARTAN-IIIs
are frequently sent on suicide missions and high-
risk, high-reward operations designed to slow the
Covenant’s advance and buy the UNSC more time.
The entire official roster of Alpha Company was killed
during Operation PROMETHEUS, which resulted in the
destruction of a Covenant shipyard in 2537; likewise,
nearly all of Beta Company was lost in a strike on
a Covenant fuel refinery, codenamed TORPEDO, in
2545. The only survivors from those companies are
those who were on different assignments when the
operations were carried out.
While the SPARTAN-IIIs are subject to ONI
Directive 920 as well, requiring all casualties be
listed as MIA or WIA, their existence is officially
classified. The public and most of the UNSC is
unaware of the distinction between the SPARTAN-
IIs and -IIIs, so both programs are simply called
“Spartan” in official documents.
INSURRECTIONIST MOVEMENTS
The Insurrection has roots in the extra-solar
colonization efforts conducted by the UEG. While
the Inner Colonies were settled by Earth’s best and
brightest in the first wave, the second wave—which
included not only additional settlers from Earth but
those from the existing colonized worlds as well—was
destined to be far less stable. Selection criteria to be
a colonist was greatly relaxed, and the equipment
was almost universally second-hand from the first
wave. These so-called Outer Colonies were therefore
considered to be the frontier of human expansion,
facing hardships and challenges that were not
experienced by the Inner Colonies.
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This led to an independent mindset among the
Outer Colonies, though in truth very few considered
breaking off from the UEG in the early days. They
were still heavily reliant on support from Earth.
However, over the course of a century, the rise
of heavy industry in the Outer Colonies quickly
outstripped that of the Inner Colonies and Earth,
shifting the balance of power away from the ancestral
homeworld. In response, Earth-centric organizations
such as the UNSC began trying to take political and
military power away from colonial administrations
with varying degrees of success.
Even then, there was not a united effort
to separate from the UEG, but rather a series
of grassroots movements that emphasized
administrative autonomy without violence. Their
efforts, however, were negatively received by the
UEG, and eventually led to the complete destruction
of the Far Isle colony. This led to the Callisto
incident, which proved to be the tipping point for the
Outer Colonies. By 2494, a number of small groups
had begun coordinating their efforts to carry out
paramilitary operations against the UEG and UNSC,
beginning the Insurrection. For over thirty years,
the Insurrectionists waged a guerilla war against
what they saw as naked corruption and oppression.
Citizens of Earth and the Inner Colonies were afraid
of the Outer Colonies, seeing them as violent and
lawless, which led to sustained public support for
the war and condemnation of the Insurrectionists
as terrorists.
The Covenant War has changed things
considerably. Most Outer Colony worlds lie in ruins,
glassed and forgotten as the war drags on. The
implementation of the Cole Protocol by the UNSC in
2535 heavily restricted civilian space traffic, dealing
a mortal blow to the Insurrection which relied on
smugglers and couriers to maintain communication
with disparate groups. While some members of
the Insurrection resisted the UNSC’s claims of a
technologically advanced alien foe, many others soon
came to understand the threat posed by the aliens.
They laid down their arms and turned their resistance
towards the Covenant, lending aid to or joining up
with their former adversaries in order to ensure
humanity’s survival. Some are even making deals
with the UNSC for recognized autonomy following the
war’s end, while others are simply biding their time
before resuming the fight.
There are too many individual Insurrectionist
factions for a complete list, though some of the major

players include the Secessionist Union, the Freedom
and Liberation Party, the People’s Occupation, and
the Bandusa Insurrectionists; the United Rebel
Front is an alliance of multiple insurrectionist
cells that coordinate their efforts. Many individual
Insurrectionists are scattered throughout the Inner
Colonies, sympathizers who recognize the unjust and
heavy hand the UNSC has used to keep the peace.
Bandusa Insurrectionists
Primarily a political interest group, the Bandusa
Insurrectionists were founded on Mars and originally
advocated for peaceful dialogue between the UEG,
the CAA, and any Outer Colonies who desired
independence. But as the Insurrection dragged on
and the number of atrocities committed by the UNSC
mounted, its members were pushed further and
further into radicalism. While avoiding direct action
themselves, the Bandusa Insurrectionists began to
smuggle weapons and intelligence for other, more
violent cells elsewhere in human space.
Given their insulation in the Sol system, the
Bandusa Insurrectionists did not take the threat of
the Covenant seriously and continued to agitate for
colonial independence. Gradually, their actions drew
harsh reprisal from the UNSC, which tasked special
forces groups to infiltrate the rebels, identify their
leadership, and advise HIGHCOM on the best way
to neutralize the threat. ONI eventually took over
the operation, devoting its extensive resources and
all three of its public sections to dismantling the
Bandusa Insurrectionists.
Their method of attack involved a combination of
assassination, propaganda, and manipulation to turn
the rebels against each other while simultaneously
poisoning the general population against their cause.
While it was not entirely bloodless, as key figures
had to be eliminated in ways that implicated their
comrades, it was seen as a victory for ONI and proof
that their methods remain effective even now.
Freedom and Liberation Party
The Freedom and Liberation Party (FLP) was a
paramilitary separatist faction that was active
during the Insurrection. Unique among many violent
insurrectionists was its location: members hailed
from and carried out operations on Inner Colony
worlds, the most famous being Mamore and the
Haven arcology bombing. FLP members believed that
SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
all worlds, not just the Outer Colonies, should
be allowed to practice self-governance and be free
of UEG interference.
Due to its distance from Harvest, the FLP
avoided facing the reality of the Covenant invasion
for many years, continuing to carry out attacks
against the UNSC even as other insurrectionist
groups fell to the alien threat. However, most of
its members and all of its leadership were killed
during the Insurrection of Mamore in 2531, when the
UNSC responded with overwhelming force. Rumor
has it they were wiped out in the first deployment of
SPARTAN-III Alpha Company.
While the FLP limps on, most of its members
have been poached by other groups, leaving only
the hardliners who refuse to give up the cause and
those members who make unappealing recruits for
other reasons.
Secessionist Union
The Secessionist Union was one of the “original”
insurrectionist groups, having petitioned the UEG for
independence for the Outer Colonies in 2487. After
their request was denied, they began by engaging in
propaganda distribution and non-violent protest of
Earth’s control. They resisted engaging in military
conflict until UNSC occupations forced their hand,
though all the while they quietly recruited from the
Colonial Military Authority, turning formerly loyal
agents of the UEG into moles and spies for the
insurrectionist cause.
The downfall of the Secessionist Union came at
the hands of Project ORION, the original supersoldier
program. They were able to identify most of the
Union’s members hidden among the CMA, which in
turn prompted the UNSC to begin officially taking
over military supervision of the Outer Colonies. The
rebel leaders were identified and either assassinated
or arrested over the course of the next decade,
ensuring the Secessionist Union lost the direction and
coordination that made it a credible threat.
However, the Secessionist Union did not entirely
fall. While its surviving leadership went on to
form the United Rebel Front, the Union was able
to continue as a separate entity, albeit in a greatly
reduced capacity. They were also among the first
Insurrectionists to acknowledge the existential threat
posed by the Covenant, agreeing to lay down their
arms in the interest of preserving humanity.
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SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
United Rebel Front
Though not the first Insurrectionist group, the United
Rebel Front (URF) is perhaps the one that has
survived the longest. Initially formed from survivors
of the Secessionist Union’s command structure, the
URF sought to recruit other rebel groups rather
than try to build its own profile. As a result, while it
had few dedicated members, it wielded an outsized
influence in the ongoing war. ONI led a successful
operation to capture its leader, former Marine Colonel
Robert Watts, but even that might not have stopped
the URF if it were not for the arrival of the Covenant.
The URF continued to carry out operations
against the UNSC, but they found themselves losing
resources in the Outer Colonies just as quickly as
the UNSC. The restrictions on civilian space traffic
spelled the end of their coordinated efforts, though
their success rate had plummeted since ONI began
using its SPARTAN-IIs to disrupt rebel operations.
As a result, most URF cells have agreed to cease
hostilities with the UNSC, even going so far as to
assist them in military operations in order to ensure
humanity’s survival.
But many counterterrorism experts caution that
the URF’s compliance is strategic. They warn that the
rebels are only doing what they need to in order to
maintain their position and are likely to resume the
conflict as soon as the war with the Covenant is over.
As this assumes the UNSC survives the ongoing war,
it is a risk most military strategists are willing to take.
Networks in the HALO Universe
Since the advent of the internet in the late twentieth
century, humans have come to rely on rapid
communication with their distant fellows. This
became progressively easier on a planetary scale,
but real-time communication between planets and
later stellar systems proved to be impossible at first.
Starships were the first messengers during the UEG’s
early efforts at colonization, carrying information
between their destinations as fast as Slipspace travel
allowed. Later, unmanned messenger drones took
up that role.
It was not until the discovery of “wavespace,”
a Slipspace-adjacent dimension where signals could
be transmitted at superluminal speeds, that near-
instantaneous communication between far-flung
worlds and ships became possible. This allowed news
9 0 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
to travel more quickly and freely during the time of
the Insurrection, helping to lead to more widespread
unrest. The UEG and CMA sought to control these
sources of information, though unauthorized “pirate”
broadcasts inevitably cropped up.
As technology has advanced swiftly during
the Covenant War, so have developments in
communications. While civilian signals are strictly
controlled by the UNSC to mitigate the risk of human
population centers being discovered by the enemy,
the military itself enjoys ever-improving access to
nearly real-time communication. However, planetary
COM networks have benefited just as much from the
same advancements.
WAYPOINT: THE WEB
BETWEEN THE STARS
For civilian purposes, Waypoint is the only interstellar
communication network available, acting as the
primary delivery service for personal messages
between the stars, for both civilian and military
personnel. It also serves as humanity’s superluminal
news source, broadcasting approved channels and
content to planets and systems operating under
the UEG’s umbrella. Access to Waypoint is free for
anyone with a suitable device, though it is an open
secret that many intelligence services, particularly
ONI, monitor and review calls and messages made
through the service. While it is not likely that they
are able to listen to conversations in real-time, it is
generally accepted that any exchange on Waypoint
can be discovered, archived, and traced by the right—
or wrong—people.
USING WAYPOINT
Waypoint is generally accessible in any populated
human system and can be picked up with any
wavespace-capable receiver, which most civilian and
military data pads possess. Waypoint is encrypted
using governmental systems, meaning unauthorized
users will need to decode the signals before being
able to determine their contents. Most military COM
systems and AIs have access to these decryption
protocols by default.
Despite the increasingly low latency of
superluminal communication, Waypoint is still not
yet capable of true real-time communication. Some
lag persists, though it is not due to speed-of-light

delays. Scientists believe this “lightspeed latency” is
the result of the same effect that causes variation in
Slipspace arrival times, though delays in wavespace
are rarely as dramatic.
ENCOUNTERS ON WAYPOINT
Due to the superluminal nature of wavespace and
the attendant time delay of several seconds to entire
minutes, it is almost impossible to carry out a hack
over vast interstellar distances. Instead, network
encounters occurring over Waypoint are likely
confined to local planetary or orbital targets.
Waypoint’s ubiquitous nature also means such
encounters are fraught with peril. Government and
military agencies monitor Waypoint regularly, and
the service uses high-end ice to ward off intruders. In
addition, sensitive data is rarely stored on Waypoint-
accessible systems, necessitating the use of other
networks to reach them.
THE BATTLENET: SECURE
WARTIME COMMUNICATIONS
Only available to the UNSC and its branches, the
battlenet is a secure, compartmentalized, and
versatile network to facilitate battlefield management
and tactical support. It has a distributed structure,
allowing commanders to take over a dedicated
shard of the battlenet for units and operations while
maintaining connections to other shards. Certain
components of the battlenet are also superluminal,
allowing leadership elements to receive updated
reports quickly. As a result, the UNSC battlenet is one
of the most advanced and secure communications
networks in human history.
BATTLENET COMPONENTS
The battlenet has many subdivisions that are
used when appropriate for the situation at hand.
Improper use of the battlenet can result in a variety
of charges, ranging from non-judicial punishment
to a court-martial.
▪ FLEETNET: A set of channels used for
communications between navy vessels.
Battlegroups and task forces are generally
assigned to individual FLEETNET channels,
though FLEETNET-7 is typically used to broadcast
to any navy ships in range of the sender.
SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
▪ GROUNDNET: A set of channels used for
communications between ground forces. Most
ground units regardless of their size—from
battalions to fireteams—always maintain
connections to GROUNDNET, as it is usually used
for theater-wide communications. However,
individual elements may have assigned channels.
▪ HIGHCOM: Short for “High Command,” this shard
is intended for communication to and between
the ranking officers of the UNSC High Command.
▪S
 ATCOM: Frequencies reserved for
communications with orbiting satellites. This may
include relaying information to ships in orbit or
for communicating with individuals or units in
another section of a planet. SATCOM relies on
COMSAT stations to be usable.
▪ SECNET: A set of channels reserved for
secure communications. SECNET stands for
“Secure Network,” though the frequency of its
use by ONI operatives has led to the misnomer
“Secret Network.”
▪ SHIPNET: A set of channels used for
communications while aboard a navy vessel.
Subdivision of these channels can vary from
ship to ship, though final say on how they are to
be used and what constitutes appropriate use is
usually left to the ship’s AI or its captain.
▪ SQUADCOM: Frequencies reserved for
communications between small units in a specific
area. SQUADCOM has a comparatively short
range, as it is intended to be used only by small
groups of people working together.
▪T
 ACCOM: Unlike SQUADCOM, TACCOM does
not permit audio communications. Instead,
it is used to share images, NAV points, and
sensor information into the HUD of other
members on SQUADCOM.
▪ TEAMCOM: The channel reserved for private
communications between members of a
particular team, usually a Fireteam. TEAMCOM’s
range is even shorter than SQUADCOM, as
team members are usually assumed to be in
proximity to each other.
USING THE BATTLENET
Generally, any broadcast communication between
a unit and others that happen on the battlefield
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SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
are assumed to use the battlenet. Whether it is
exchanging intel between scouts on patrol or
requesting orders from an officer in orbit, virtually all
military communication takes place on the battlenet.
Depending on the situation, however, certain
components of the battlenet may not be available.
While any frequency or channel may be found on
the fortress world of Reach, a colony in the middle
of being glassed likely has few or no remaining
satellites to facilitate communication between
soldiers on the ground and any help that may be
coming. A ship operating behind enemy lines may
have its SHIPNET, but to avoid detection it might
sever its link to HIGHCOM.
ENCOUNTERS ON THE BATTLENET
The battlenet is highly secure and actively monitored,
making intrusions and infiltrations difficult at best.
While short-range COMs such as TEAMCOM or
SQUADCOM may rely on end-to-end encryption,
expect anything such as SHIPNET, FLEETNET, or
HIGHCOM to be packed with ice and backed up by AIs.
In addition, the battlenet is used mostly for
communication rather than storage, meaning that
infiltrating it is normally the first step for reaching a
target system, rather than the last. However, access to
UNSC communications is a major intelligence breach
that may be the only goal of certain enemies, as they
eavesdrop on tactical plans and prepare ambushes.
CHATTERNET: A NETWORK
FOR THE REST OF US
ChatterNet is the localized communications network
used by specific worlds that is most analogous to
the internet of Earth centuries ago. It connects a
wide variety of devices to each other, from municipal
supercomputers to personal data pads. ChatterNet
is highly secure compared to services such as
Waypoint, and as such is the preferred option for
making and tracking financial transactions, as well as
those who prefer to keep their actions clandestine.
The Chatter Protocol Authority (CPA) is responsible
for maintaining and policing the use of ChatterNets
across human space.
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USING CHATTERNET
Access to ChatterNet can be gained through almost
any networked device and an individual’s ChatterNet
credentials, including their government number,
though most people use a dedicated chatter when it
comes to using the service’s communication systems.
Due to the advances in communications technology,
ChatterNet effectively operates in real-time no matter
where any device or server is located on the planet.
ENCOUNTERS ON CHATTERNET
Though ChatterNet has a reputation for being
secure, it is far from impenetrable. Any authorized
credentials allow access to the network, and from
there security can vary wildly. One person’s chatter
may have only the most basic encryption and
security, while a municipal system might have a
“dumb” AI protecting it.
THE COVENANT BATTLENET:
ENEMY TERRITORY
As it is with humans, the alien coalition known as
the Covenant relies on fast communications with its
forces to organize their war. The technology they
use is extremely advanced, able to manage real-time
communications between elements across hundreds
of lightyears. Despite this capacity, human observers
have made note of the Covenant’s cavalier attitude
towards security. Communications and signals
between starships are reliably difficult to crack,
but ground forces seem unbothered by their lack of
robust infiltration countermeasures. Whatever the
reason for this oversight, the UNSC has sought to
capitalize on it, frequently compromising Covenant
networks and leaving their enemies none the wiser.
USING THE COVENANT BATTLENET
To be able to access the Covenant battlenet, any
network-capable device will do, but the alien
language used to build and communicate the network
presents the first major hurdle. This can be overcome
by getting the latest ONI translation protocols. Once
you can understand what the network is saying, it
becomes possible to hack into it and eavesdrop on
enemy communications, while the most capable
human operators and AIs might even succeed at
forging new orders.

ENCOUNTERS ON THE COVENANT BATTLENET
Much like the UNSC battlenet, the Covenant battlenet
is primarily used for battlefield communications.
As such, it is heavily encrypted... but usually only
for initial access. Once plugged into the battlenet,
intelligence agents have reported virtually no
additional security, while AIs have made note of
peculiar and crude security constructs that can
sometimes be found on patrol. These constructs
behave erratically and are just as likely to ignore
intruders as try to neutralize them. But when roused
to action, they prove to be just as dangerous as
human-built intrusion countermeasures.
NETWORK ENCOUNTERS AND AIs
As one might imagine, artificial intelligences have a
special relationship to computer networks. AIs are
digital beings, existing entirely in the realm of code
and data. It may even be accurate to say that an AI is
a network unto itself.
Because they lack physical bodies, AIs can only
interact with the world through networks, whether
it is the workaday SHIPNET of their assigned vessel,
the peculiar and dangerous Covenant Battlenet, or
the intimate confines of a MJOLNIR Mk. V suit of
armor when it has been integrated with a Spartan
operator. In the connected future of the HALO
universe, an AI can move freely between these
networks and more—including the lingering and
enigmatic networks of Forerunner ruins, which are
entirely alien yet strangely familiar.
Despite this, players and GMs might struggle
sometimes to imagine ways to incorporate AI
characters into scenes. To help, we have some
suggestions below:
▪A
 I PCs should always have a way to interact
with a given scene, provided the player wants
to. When possible, they should be “present” by
way of being loaded into an armored matrix or
MJOLNIR armor, but alternatives include being
available on COMs and accessing local networks
through a COM connection.
▪G
 Ms should allow AI characters extra leeway
when it comes to communicating with other
characters. The speed at which AIs operate allow
them to carry on multiple in-depth conversations
simultaneously. This is handled easily enough
during narrative time, but in structured time,
SECTION 03. THE GREAT WAR
allow AIs to communicate with multiple
characters on their turn, perhaps even being
able to respond as an out-of-turn incidental if
someone asks a question or demands an update.
▪N
 ot all scenes involving networks need to be
full-blown network encounters! Remember that
many computer systems, particularly personal
and civilian ones, have security measures that
an AI would find laughably easy to circumvent.
The hardware an AI has access to might also
allow them to create a “concurrent network,”
which they can use to plan and move about while
avoiding detection, until it is time for them to act.
▪ In
 combat, AIs have many options even if
they are not hooked into offensive systems.
They can take Hacking actions to interfere
with the enemy by jamming their COMs and
scrambling their sensors, and they can use
Sysops to spoof weapon systems or counteract
electronic warfare measures. If all other ideas
fail, the AI can use their maneuvers to Assist
other characters, as described on page 98 of
the Genesys Core Rulebook.
▪A
 lways use the Rule of Cool: if an AI character
comes up with an awesome idea that is even
remotely plausible, give them a chance to try it.
At worst, they fail, but at least they tried; more
likely, they get to use their creativity to open up
new opportunities for themselves and the rest
of the group.
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SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES
In this war, humanity faces many foes, both external
and internal. In this chapter, you will find NPC
templates for a variety of individuals, including
the Covenant and various factions within human
space. GMs should feel free to make any alterations
necessary to create unique and potentially terrifying
opponents for their players.
The Covenant
Much of the Covenant is still poorly understood
by the UNSC. While the existence of civilian and
governmental aspects of the Covenant are theorized
and hinted at in intercepted communications,
humanity’s knowledge of their enemy is largely
restricted to its military arm, thanks to twenty-six
years of nonstop war.
ONI has categorized a significant amount of
information about the Covenant military hierarchy
and the placement of the different client species
within it. The proper names of most of these species
are known, but they are organized here by their
common human designations. They appear to use
standard ranks across all units with only slight
variations among them:
▪ Minors are the rank-and-file, handling basic
tasks and serving as frontline infantry. This
rank appears to be analogous to enlisted and
non-commissioned officer ranks in the UNSC.
▪ Majors are battlefield leaders, issuing orders
to their units and coordinating tactics. They
seem to have the authority of lower-ranked
commissioned officers, up to captain in the
infantry and lieutenant in the navy.
▪ Specialists have particular skill sets that set
them apart from the others, though these skills
tend to vary widely based on the species. This
category also includes the formidable Special
Operations units.
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COVENANT PILOTS
Virtually all Covenant warriors may be asked
to hop behind the controls of a Ghost or take
to the skies in a Banshee, so they do not have
dedicated pilots. To create one, simply choose
which species you want to have behind the
controls, replace one of their general skills
with Driving or Piloting, and replace one of
their combat skills with Gunnery.
Looking for Covenant vehicle profiles?
Check out the companion theme, STATION &
SALVATION, for those and much more!
▪L
 eaders are commanders in all areas. All species
appear to have an Ultra rank, which serves as the
equivalent of upper-tier officers such as colonels
on the ground and commanders in space.
However, only the Elites seem to have leadership
authority in the form of Field Masters (akin to
generals) and Ship Masters (captains in the navy).
Though the Covenant maintains a significant
advantage in ship-to-ship combat, its ground forces
are more of an even match for the UNSC. The strict
hierarchy and tension between client species have
been known to cause morale issues, and competitions
for authority have been witnessed by human troops.
Presently, recommended engagement parameters
are to locate and eliminate the leadership elements
(Ultra and above) in order to sow chaos and confusion
before carrying out an assault on enemy positions.
GRUNTS (UNGGOY)
In the hierarchy of the Covenant, Grunts are little
more than slaves. Small of stature and easily
frightened, they resemble a cross between a lizard
and a monkey. Their home planet has an atmosphere
of methane, meaning that each Grunt must wear a
tank and breathing mask, both of which are built
into their combat harness.
 SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

GRUNT MINOR [MINION] GRUNT MAJOR [MINION]

Due to their high rate of reproduction and low
status, Grunts are seen as highly expendable by
their superiors. They are sent into combat in waves
to overwhelm the enemy’s defenses. Grunt Minors
wear bright orange armor and make up the bulk of
their combat formations, and off the battlefield can be
found engaged in drudge work, playing games with
each other, or finding a quiet place to sneak a nap.
Those few Grunt Minors who manage to survive more
than a handful of combat engagements are promoted
up the ranks. Wearing the standard crimson color of
leadership, Grunt Majors are given command over
small groups of their fellow Grunts. They possess
some knowledge of tactics and leadership, though
usually only enough to keep their subordinates from
outright panic.

2 2 2 2 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE

3 4 1 1 3 5 1 1
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE

Skills (group only): Athletics, Brawl, Ranged (Light)
Talents: None
Abilities:
▪ Methane Breather: Breathes methane; must use
a respirator, and if exposed to oxygen, treats it as
a dangerous atmosphere with rating 8.
▪S
 trength in Numbers: Adds 󲊸 to combat checks
when there are at least two other friendly
nemeses, rivals, or minion groups engaged in the
encounter; adds 󲊸 to combat checks when there
are no other friendly nemeses, rivals, or minion
groups engaged in the encounter.
Equipment:
▪P
 lasma pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6;
Critical 2; Short range; Burn 1, Guided 1
[only with Overcharge maneuver],
Overcharge, Plasma)
▪ Or needler pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Medium range; Blast 6,
Guided 3, Pierce 2)
▪P
 lasma grenade (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8;
Critical 3; Short range; Blast 8, Pierce 5,
Limited Ammo 1)
▪ Standard harness (soak +1, defense 1)
Skills (group only): Cool, Brawl, Discipline,
Ranged (Light)
Talents: None
Abilities:
▪ Methane Breather: Breathes methane; must use
a respirator, and if exposed to oxygen, treats it as
a dangerous atmosphere with rating 8.
▪S
 trength in Numbers: Adds 󲊸 to combat checks
when there are at least two other friendly
nemeses, rivals, or minion groups engaged in the
encounter; adds 󲊸 to combat checks when there
are no other friendly nemeses, rivals, or minion
groups engaged in the encounter.
Equipment:
 lasma rifle (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7;
▪P
Critical 2; Medium range; Burn 2, Plasma)
▪ Or needler pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Medium range; Blast 6,
Guided 3, Pierce 2)
▪P
 lasma grenade (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8;
Critical 3; Short range; Blast 8, Pierce 5,
Limited Ammo 1)
▪ Standard harness (soak +1, defense 1)

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SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES
GRUNT SPECIALIST [MINION]
Grunts who are found to have valuable talents and
interests may find themselves given the position of
Specialist. While their areas of expertise will vary
widely, the most common Specialists are those who
have learned how to use computer networks and
those who are proficient in the use of heavy weapons,
though others are qualified to operate vehicles.
They wear green armor.
2 2 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
3 5 1 1
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills (group only): Gunnery, Perception,
Ranged (Light), Sysops
Talents: None
Abilities:
▪ Gun Crew: For each Grunt Specialist member
in the minion group beyond the first, reduce the
Cumbersome rating of their weapons by 1.
▪ Methane Breather: Breathes methane; must use
a respirator, and if exposed to oxygen, treats it as
a dangerous atmosphere with rating 8.
Equipment:
▪P
 lasma pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6;
Critical 2; Short range; Burn 1, Guided 1
[only with Overcharge maneuver],
Overcharge, Plasma)
▪F
 uel Rod Gun (Gunnery; Damage 20; Critical 3;
Long range; Blast 10, Breach 2, Cumbersome 4)
▪ Standard harness (soak +1, defense 1)
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GRUNT ULTRA [RIVAL]
Though the species as a whole is subservient to the
Elites, sometimes a natural leader will emerge among
the Grunts and rise to prominence. They are awarded
the rank of Ultra and given pearlescent armor. Unlike
Elite Ultras, however, Grunt Ultras frequently operate
in pairs or trios, sharing leadership duties and
making decisions as a group. Others consider this to
be inefficient, but the level of cohesion exhibited by
Grunts led by their own Ultras cannot be denied.
2 2
3 3 3 2 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
5 10 3 3
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Cool 2 (󲊺󲊺), Discipline 2 (󲊺󲊺),
Gunnery 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Leadership 2 (󲊺󲊺),
Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Survival 2 (󲊺󲊺)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 1: Upgrade all combat checks
targeting this character once.
Abilities:
▪ Grunt Cohesion: Reduces the difficulty of all
Discipline checks made by Grunts within short
range by 1, to a minimum of 1.
▪ Methane Breather: Breathes methane; must use
a respirator, and if exposed to oxygen, treats it as
a dangerous atmosphere with rating 8.
Equipment:
 lasma rifle (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7;
▪P
Critical 2; Medium range; Burn 2, Plasma)
▪ Or needler pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Medium range; Blast 6,
Guided 3, Pierce 2)
▪P
 lasma launcher (Gunnery; Damage 8;
Critical 3; Medium range; Blast 8, Guided 3,
Linked 3, Plasma, Slow Firing 1)
▪ Command harness (soak +2, defense 3)
 SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

GRUNT SPECOPS DEPUTY [RIVAL] JACKALS (KIG-YAR)

Within Covenant Special Operations, some Grunts
find more meaningful work. Rather than being
treated as cannon fodder, SpecOps Deputies act
in supporting roles for Elites in their units and are
trained in ambush tactics. They make effective use
of active camouflage to avoid fighting when possible,
and to maximize their advantages when combat
is unavoidable.
Having a more avian appearance despite their
name, Jackals occupy roles as light infantry, scouts,
and marksmen. They are most often distinguished
by their shield gauntlets which project ovals of
protective energy from their wrists. While most often
seen as part of infantry formations alongside Grunts,
it is understood that Jackals occupy a higher stratum
in society and therefore have minor leadership
roles as well.

3 3 3 3 3 2 JACKAL MINOR [MINION]

BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
Jackal Minors prefer to fight in a phalanx formation,
5 10 3 3 using their shield gauntlets to provide overlapping
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE cover for an infantry advance. This would be more
effective if they partnered with the Grunts under their
Skills: Discipline 1 (󲊺󲊷󲊷), Gunnery 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), command, but their disdain for Grunts means they
Hacking 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), are often sent in first, with Jackals following behind
Skulduggery 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Stealth 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), for cleanup.
Vigilance 1 (󲊺󲊷󲊷)

Talents: None 1 3 2 2 2 1
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
Abilities:
▪ Active Camo: As an incidental, may use active
4 5 2 2
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
camouflage, which upgrades their Stealth checks
by one and upgrades the difficulty to detect the
Skills (group only): Coordination, Perception,
user by one.
Ranged (Light), Vigilance
▪ Methane Breather: Breathes methane; must use
a respirator, and if exposed to oxygen, treats it as Talents: None
a dangerous atmosphere with rating 8.
Abilities: None
Equipment:
▪P
 lasma pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Equipment:
Critical 2; Short range; Burn 1, Guided 1 ▪P
 lasma pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6;
[only with Overcharge maneuver], Critical 2; Short range; Burn 1, Guided 1
Overcharge, Plasma) [only with Overcharge maneuver],
▪ Or needler pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Overcharge, Plasma)
Critical 3; Medium range; Blast 6, ▪S
 tandard harness (soak +1, defense 1),
Guided 3, Pierce 2) energy shield gauntlet (defense 1, Shielded 2
▪P
 lasma grenade (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8; [single direction only])
Critical 3; Short range; Blast 8, Pierce 5,
Limited Ammo 1)
▪O
 perative harness (soak +2, defense 3,
Active Camo)

WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 97

SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

JACKAL RANGER [RIVAL]

SHIELDED QUALITY
Note that in these stat blocks, any adversary
that has the Shielded quality already has the
soak increase factored in. Should they lose
the Shielded quality, decrease their soak by
an amount equal to their Shielded rating.
To be considered for the Covenant Rangers, a
Jackal must show higher-than-average discipline
and the ability to follow orders. Jackal Rangers are
more often deployed as scouts and marksmen on
the ground, but in space they usually take part in
boarding actions, maneuvering on antigravity packs
to deftly avoid incoming fire. They often provide
backup to Elite Ranger teams operating in the void.

JACKAL MAJOR [MINION] 2 3 2 3 2 2

Jackal Majors have distinguished themselves for their BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
prowess in combat and given increased responsibility.
Majors are typically alone or in pairs, overseeing 4 9 2 2
mixed units of Jackals and Grunts. They are no less SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE

bloodthirsty than they were as Minors, meaning they

can be lured out with the promise of glory. Skills: Discipline 2 (󲊺󲊺), Piloting 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Ranged (Heavy) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Survival 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Vigilance 2 (󲊺󲊺)
1 3 2 2 2 2 Talents: None
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE

4 6 2 2 Abilities:
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE ▪ Antigravity Pack: As a maneuver, the user can fly
with their Piloting skill with the following profile:
Skills (group only): Cool, Discipline, Perception, Silhouette 1, Speed 2, Handling 0.
Ranged (Light), Vigilance
Equipment:
Talents: None
▪C
 ovenant carbine (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7;
Critical 3; Long range; Accurate 1)
Abilities: None
▪ Or beam rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 10;
Equipment: Critical 2; Extreme range; Accurate 2,
Breach 1, Plasma, Slow-Firing 1)
▪P
 lasma pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6;
Critical 2; Short range; Burn 1, Guided 1 ▪E
 nergy dagger (Melee; Damage 4; Critical 2;
[only with Overcharge maneuver], Engaged range; Pierce 1)
Overcharge, Plasma) ▪ Ranger harness (soak +2, defense 2)
▪ Or plasma rifle (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7;
Critical 2; Medium range; Burn 2, Plasma)
▪S
 tandard harness (soak +1, defense 1),
energy shield gauntlet (defense 1, Shielded 2
[single direction only])

9 8 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0

 SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

SKIRMISHER [RIVAL] BRUTES (JIRALHANAE)

Skirmishers are a different subspecies from the Described as a cross between a gorilla and a
regular Jackals, but they share their cousins' keen rhinoceros, Brutes act as the Covenant's shock
senses and thirst for blood. Their hardy physiques troops, rear guard, and sometimes police forces.
make them suited to act as shock troops, ambushing They appear to be subservient to Elites in battle,
and quickly engaging the enemy before withdrawing but intercepted communications lead ONI to conclude
to watch and wait for the next opportunity to strike. their position within the Covenant hierarchy is in flux.
They also act as marksmen, though their preference Their star is rising in the eyes of Covenant leadership,
for chaos makes them somewhat ineffective. resulting in more conflicts between the Brutes and
their Elite overseers. On the battlefield, Brutes
typically work in packs and act like berserkers, often
2 3 2 3 3 2 having no clear objective beyond causing as much
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE death and injury as possible.

3 10 1 1
BRUTE MINOR [RIVAL]
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Brute Minors are young whelps in cobalt armor,
Skills: Athletics 1 (󲊺󲊷), Coordination 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), overeager for their chance at honor and glory. They
Perception 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Ranged (Heavy) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), act with little caution and can be easily drawn into
Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Stealth 1 (󲊺󲊷󲊷), ambushes and traps. However, they have a natural
Vigilance 1 (󲊺󲊷󲊷) inclination for combat; many UNSC units have seen
their superior positions reduced to nothing by the
Talents: Brutes' sheer stubborn willingness to keep fighting,
no matter how much pain they suffer.
▪ Adversary 1: Upgrade the difficulty of combat
checks made against this target once.

Abilities: None 3 2 2 2 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
Equipment:
4 13 1 1
▪P
 lasma pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Critical 2; Short range; Burn 1, Guided 1
[only with Overcharge maneuver], Skills: Athletics 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Brawl 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Overcharge, Plasma) Melee 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺),
▪ Or needler pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Vigilance 1 (󲊺󲊷)
Critical 3; Medium range; Blast 6,
Guided 3, Pierce 2) Talents: None
▪N
 eedler rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 8; Critical
Abilities: None
3; Long range; Accurate 1, Blast 6, Pierce 3)
▪ Or focus rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 9; Critical Equipment:
3; Extreme range; Accurate 1, Pierce 5, Plasma)
▪P
 lasma rifle (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7;
▪ Standard harness (soak +1, defense 1) Critical 2; Medium range; Burn 2, Plasma)
▪O
 r spike rifle (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7;
Critical 2; Short range; Vicious 2)
▪S
 pike grenade (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8;
Critical 2; Short range; Blast 8, Limited Ammo 1,
Vicious 2)
▪ Standard harness (soak +1, defense 1)

WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 99

SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

BRUTE MAJOR [RIVAL] BRUTE STALKER [RIVAL]

Brute Majors represent a common leadership
element for Brutes on the ground. They wear
standard Major crimson and make better use of
tactical formations and heavier weapons. Their
greater experience makes them more cautious
opponents, but they still suffer from the same
call to battle seen in their subordinates.
One area where Brutes differ significantly from
Elites is the realm of what makes honorable combat.
Brute Stalkers are unconcerned with the notion of
a fair fight, allowing them to earn glory through
savagery and surprise attacks. Stalkers are more
patient than their brethren, able to wait for the right
moment to strike in order to cause maximum fear
among the enemy.

3 3 2 2 2 3
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
3 3 2 2 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
4 15 1 1
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE 4 12 0 0
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Athletics 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Brawl 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Discipline 2 (󲊺󲊺), Ranged (Heavy) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Skills: Cool 2 (󲊺󲊺), Coordination 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Ranged (Light) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Vigilance 2 (󲊺󲊺) Melee 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Skulduggery 2 (󲊺󲊺), Stealth 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 1: Upgrade the difficulty of combat Talents:
checks made against this target once. ▪ Adversary 1: Upgrade the difficulty of combat
checks made against this target once.
Abilities:
▪ Overwhelming Fire: May perform a maneuver Abilities:
to direct one Grunt minion group within medium ▪ Active Camo: As an incidental, may use active
range; the group may perform an immediate camouflage, which upgrades their Stealth checks
free combat check action. by one and upgrades the difficulty to detect the
user by one.
Equipment:
▪P
 lasma rifle (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7; Equipment:
Critical 2; Medium range; Burn 2, Plasma) ▪M
 auler (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 2;
▪ Or spike rifle (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7; Short range; Blast 4, Knockdown, Vicious 2)
Critical 2; Short range; Vicious 2) ▪F
 irebomb (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8; Critical 2;
▪N
 eedler rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 8; Critical Blast 6, Burn 6, Limited Ammo 1)
3; Long range; Accurate 1, Blast 6, Pierce 3) ▪ Infiltration harness (soak +1, defense 0,
▪ Or Covenant carbine (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7; Active Camo)
Critical 3; Long range; Accurate 1)
▪S
 pike grenade (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8;
Critical 2; Short range; Blast 8,
Limited Ammo 1, Vicious 2)
▪ Standard harness (soak +1, defense 1)

1 0 0 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0


BRUTE ULTRA [NEMESIS]
Brute Ultras are usually the most senior of their
kind found on the battlefield, though they are a
rare sight due to the Elites' wariness of permitting
real leaders among their rivals. Ultras wield heavy
weapons and coordinate assaults from the front,
earning them glory in the eyes of their kin. The best
of them may declare themselves to be Chieftains,
forging gravity hammers and making a new pack
of their subordinates.
4 3 2 3 2 3
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
6 18 16
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD
Skills: Brawl 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Coercion 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Cool 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Discipline 2 (󲊺󲊺),
Gunnery 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Knowledge (Covenant) 2 (󲊺󲊺),
Leadership 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Melee 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Ranged (Heavy) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Vigilance 2 (󲊺󲊺)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 2: Upgrade the difficulty of combat
checks made against this target twice.
Abilities:
▪ Overwhelming Fire: May perform a maneuver
to direct one Grunt minion group within medium
range; the group may perform an immediate free
combat check action.
▪ Rallying Howl: May perform a maneuver to
grant any Brutes within medium range 󲊸 on
their next action.
Equipment:
▪C
 oncussion rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 10;
Critical 3; Medium range; Blast 4, Knockdown)
▪ Or Brute shot (Gunnery; Damage 10; Critical 3;
Medium range; Blast 6, Knockdown)
▪G
 ravity hammer (Melee; Damage 8,
Critical 2; Engaged range; Blast 4,
Cumbersome 4, Knockdown, Vicious 2)
▪ Assault harness (soak +2, defense 2)
SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES
ELITES (SANGHEILI)
The Elites are the backbone of the Covenant's
armada. These saurians act as the military leadership
caste and can be found occupying just about every
role that could be asked of them. The least of them fill
out the ranks of the infantry, leading other Covenant
client species into battle, while the highest-ranked
command entire fleets and legions in the war against
humanity. As a people, they have had millennia
of experience waging interstellar war, and that
experience shows through on the battlefield.
ELITE MINOR [RIVAL]
Dressed in cobalt armor, Elite Minors are the driving
2 2 force behind the Covenant's might. They are found at
M/R DEFENSE every post, typically overseeing the lesser castes in
their duties. Like all Elites, Minors believe fervently
in the notion of honorable battle, though they see
humans as beneath such ideals. Nevertheless, these
are the warriors most likely to face humanity in
battle and test their strength.
2 2 2 2 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
6 12 1 1
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Athletics 1 (󲊺󲊷), Brawl 2 (󲊺󲊺),
Discipline 1 (󲊺󲊷), Ranged [Heavy] 2 (󲊺󲊺),
Ranged [Light] 2 (󲊺󲊺), Vigilance 1 (󲊺󲊷)
Talents: None
Abilities:
▪ Tactical Direction: May perform a maneuver to
direct one Grunt minion group within medium
range; the group may perform an immediate free
maneuver or add 󲊸 to its check.
Equipment:
▪P
 lasma pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6;
Critical 2; Short range; Burn 1, Guided 1
[only with Overcharge maneuver],
Overcharge, Plasma)
▪ Or needler pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6;
Critical 3; Medium range; Blast 6,
Guided 3, Pierce 2)
WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 101
SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES
▪P
 lasma rifle (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7;
Critical 2; Medium range; Burn 2, Plasma)
▪O
 r Covenant carbine (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7;
Critical 3; Long range; Accurate 1)
▪P
 lasma grenade (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8;
Critical 3; Short range; Blast 8, Pierce 5,
Limited Ammo 1)
▪ Standard harness (soak +1, defense 1, Shielded 3)
ELITE MAJOR [RIVAL]
Elites are promoted based on their combat prowess,
meaning that those who wear the crimson of Majors
have personally slain hundreds of enemies each.
Their experience rarely makes them more cautious
warriors, though by this time they have seen enough
battle to understand basic human tactics. Majors
usually oversee two or three Minors, serving as a
teacher and example in their combat education.
3 3 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
7 14 1 1
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Brawl 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Cool 2 (󲊺󲊺),
Discipline 2 (󲊺󲊺), Leadership 2 (󲊺󲊺),
Ranged [Heavy] 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Ranged [Light] 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 1: Upgrade all combat checks made
against this target once.
Abilities:
▪ Tactical Direction: May perform a maneuver to
direct one Grunt minion group within medium
range; the group may perform an immediate free
maneuver or add 󲊸 to its check.
Equipment:
▪N
 eedler pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical
3; Medium range; Blast 6, Guided 3, Pierce 2)
▪N
 eedler rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 8; Critical
3; Long range; Accurate 1, Blast 6, Pierce 3)
▪ Or Covenant carbine (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7;
Critical 3; Long range; Accurate 1)
1 0 2 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
▪P
 lasma grenade (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8;
Critical 3; Short range; Blast 8, Pierce 5,
Limited Ammo 1)
▪ Standard harness (soak +1, defense 1, Shielded 3)
ELITE RANGER [RIVAL]
Serving under the auspices of Fleet Security, a
sister organization to the infamous Covenant Special
Operations, Elite Rangers are fearsome fighters
aboard ship and in the vacuum of space. Like their
SpecOps brethren, Rangers seek only the most
pragmatic warriors to join their ranks, though they
prize piloting ability and leadership above stealth
and sabotage. Elite Rangers usually lead standard
infantry in conducting boarding operations.
3 3 2 3 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
2 2 8
SOAK VALUE
14
WOUND THRESHOLD
2 2
M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Driving 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Leadership 1 (󲊺󲊷),
Perception 1 (󲊺󲊷󲊷), Piloting 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Ranged (Heavy) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Vigilance 2 (󲊺󲊺)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 1: Upgrade all combat checks made
against this target once.
Abilities:
▪ Antigravity Pack: As a maneuver, the user can fly
with their Piloting skill with the following profile:
Silhouette 1, Speed 2, Handling 0.
Equipment:
▪P
 lasma pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6;
Critical 2; Short range; Burn 1, Guided 1
[only with Overcharge maneuver],
Overcharge, Plasma)
▪P
 lasma repeater (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 9;
Critical 2; Medium range; Auto-fire,
Burn 3, Plasma)
▪ Or Covenant carbine (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7;
Critical 3; Long range; Accurate 1)
▪ Ranger harness (soak +2, defense 2, Shielded 3)

ELITE ULTRA [NEMESIS]
Elite Ultras serve as flexible battlefield leaders,
commanding entire companies and sometimes
vessels in service to the Covenant. Ultra is a rank
that earns its bearer the right to wear striking
pearlescent armor and is the highest an Elite can
hope to rise without winning the favor of a political
ally. Many Ultras are also celebrated swordsmen,
wielding the signature twin-pronged energy blade
against all challengers.
4 3 3 2 2 3
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
9 16 14 2 2
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Athletics 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Brawl 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Cool 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Discipline 2 (󲊺󲊺), Knowledge
(Covenant) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Leadership 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Melee 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷), Ranged (Heavy) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Resilience 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷),
Survival 2 (󲊺󲊺), Vigilance 1 (󲊺󲊷)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 2: Upgrade the difficulty of all combat
checks made against this target twice.
Abilities:
▪T
 he Great Journey: May perform a maneuver
to cause all ranged attacks targeting the Elite
Ultra to instead hit one ally or helpless enemy
they are engaged with until the beginning of
their next turn.
Equipment:
▪D
 ual plasma rifles (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7;
Critical 2; Medium range; Burn 2, Plasma)
▪ Or Covenant carbine (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7;
Critical 3; Long range; Accurate 1)
▪E
 nergy sword (Melee; Damage 10; Critical 2;
Engaged range; Breach 1, Cumbersome 3,
Sunder, Vicious 3)
▪ Assault harness (soak +2, defense 2, Shielded 3)
SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES
ELITE FIELD MASTER [NEMESIS]
The Field Master is the highest authority on the
ground, an Elite in shining gold armor who directs
entire campaigns to burn heresy from the stars.
Both cunning and ruthless, Field Masters usually
hold noble titles and perhaps even a seat on the
Council of Masters. Typically, they are also members
of the Order of Zealots, an organization that serves
under the Ministry of Fervent Intercession and which
demands excellence in service from all its members.
4 3 3 2 3 4
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
10 18 16 2 2
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Coercion 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Cool 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Discipline 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Driving 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Knowledge
(Covenant) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Leadership 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Melee 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺), Ranged (Light) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Ranged (Heavy) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Vigilance 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 3: Upgrade the difficulty of all combat
checks made against this target three times.
Abilities:
▪F
 or the Glory of Salvation! Once per encounter
as a maneuver, after suffering a Critical Injury,
may take a number of strain equal to the severity
of the Critical Injury to ignore its effects until the
end of the encounter.
Equipment:
▪P
 lasma rifle (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7;
Critical 2; Medium range; Burn 2, Plasma)
▪C
 ovenant carbine (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7;
Critical 3; Long range; Accurate 1)
▪O
 r concussion rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 10;
Critical 3; Medium range; Blast 4, Knockdown)
▪E
 nergy sword (Melee; Damage 10; Critical 2;
Engaged range; Breach 1, Cumbersome 3,
Sunder, Vicious 3)
▪C
 ommand harness (soak +2, defense 2,
Shielded 4)
WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 103
SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES
ELITE SHIP MASTER [NEMESIS]
Where Field Masters command on the ground,
Ship Masters command in space. Each is the highest
authority on their own vessel, demanding the respect
and obedience of those who serve under them. They
carry the burden of command well, ordering their
ships into battle and taking direct control when
necessary. Most are members of the Order of Zealots,
and those who prove their daring and devotion will
be elevated to the rank of Fleet Master, commanding
dozens of ships.
3 4 3 2 3 4
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
9 18 16
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD
Skills: Coercion 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Cool 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Discipline 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Gunnery 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Knowledge (Covenant) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Leadership 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺), Melee 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Operating 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Piloting 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Ranged (Light) 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺), Vigilance 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 3: Upgrade the difficulty of all combat
checks made against this target three times.
Abilities:
▪S
 how No Mercy: May perform a maneuver to
add 󲊸 to all Gunnery checks made by allies
aboard the same ship until the beginning of
their next turn.
Equipment:
▪N
 eedler pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical
3; Medium range; Blast 6, Guided 3, Pierce 2)
▪D
 ual plasma rifles (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7;
Critical 2; Medium range; Burn 2, Plasma)
▪E
 nergy sword (Melee; Damage 10; Critical 2;
Engaged range; Breach 1, Cumbersome 3,
Sunder, Vicious 3)
▪C
 ommand harness (soak +2, defense 2,
Shielded 4)
1 0 4 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
ELITE SPECOPS OFFICER [RIVAL]
In the ranks of the Covenant, Special Operations is
regarded with a quiet awe and dread. Elites who
serve as part of SpecOps may conduct dishonorable
operations, but they do so for the continued glory
of the Covenant, earning them the title of "Prophet
Blessed." Nevertheless, their simple presence—
always in violet or black armor, when they can even
be seen—is enough to unnerve most regular infantry.
3 3 2 2 3 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
9 15 2 2
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
2 2
M/R DEFENSE Skills: Athletics 1 (󲊺󲊷󲊷), Cool 2 (󲊺󲊺),
Melee 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Ranged (Heavy) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Ranged (Light) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Skulduggery 2 (󲊺󲊺),
Stealth 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Vigilance 1 (󲊺󲊷)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 2: Upgrade the difficulty of all combat
checks made against this target twice.
Abilities:
▪ Active Camo: As an incidental, may use active
camouflage, which upgrades their Stealth checks
by one and upgrades the difficulty to detect the
user by one.
Equipment:
▪P
 lasma rifle (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7;
Critical 2; Medium range; Burn 2, Plasma)
▪ Or Covenant carbine (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7;
Critical 3; Long range; Accurate 1)
▪P
 lasma grenade (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8;
Critical 3; Short range; Blast 8, Pierce 5,
Limited Ammo 1)
▪E
 nergy sword (Melee; Damage 10; Critical 2;
Engaged range; Breach 1, Cumbersome 3,
Sunder, Vicious 3)
▪O
 perative harness (soak +2, defense 2,
Active Camo, Shielded 4)

ELITE SPECOPS COMMANDER [NEMESIS]
Special Operations Commanders lead their units
into battle, conducting all manner of missions in
precarious circumstances—assassination, espionage,
sabotage of the Covenant's foes, both internal and
external. SpecOps Commanders usually rise to the
position after distinguishing themselves for their
actions as pragmatic and careful operatives,
though songs of their deeds will never be sung
in the halls of home.
4 4 3 3 3 3
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
10 20 18
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD
Skills: Athletics 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Cool 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Coordination 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Leadership 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Melee 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺), Ranged (Heavy) 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Ranged (Light) 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺), Skulduggery 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Stealth 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺), Vigilance 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 3: Upgrade the difficulty of all combat
checks made against this target three times.
Abilities:
▪ Active Camo: As an incidental, may use active
camouflage, which upgrades their Stealth checks
by one and upgrades the difficulty to detect the
user by one.
Equipment:
▪P
 lasma pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6;
Critical 2; Short range; Burn 1, Guided 1
[only with Overcharge maneuver],
Overcharge, Plasma)
▪ Or Plasma rifle (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7;
Critical 2; Medium range; Burn 2, Plasma)
▪C
 ovenant carbine (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7;
Critical 3; Long range; Accurate 1)
▪O
 r beam rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 10;
Critical 2; Extreme range; Accurate 2, Breach 1,
Plasma, Slow-Firing 1)
SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES
▪E
 nergy sword (Melee; Damage 10; Critical 2;
Engaged range; Breach 1, Cumbersome 3,
Sunder, Vicious 3)
▪O
 perative harness (soak +2, defense 2,
Active Camo, Shielded 4)
ARBITER [NEMESIS]
ONI's files regarding the singular Elite warriors
known as Arbiters are incomplete. Based on
recovered intelligence, they appear to be some
kind of deathseeker, an Elite of incomparable skill
who has transgressed against the state religion and
must die in glorious service to the Covenant in order
to be redeemed. They wear ornate armor and often
2 2 wield the finest weapons in the Covenant's arsenal.
M/R DEFENSE
Combined with their unique mission, this often
makes them the most dangerous and formidable
fighter on the field.
5 4 3 4 3 3
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
10 22 20 2 2
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Athletics 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Brawl 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷), Coercion 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Cool 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Coordination 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Discipline 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Driving 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Gunnery 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Knowledge (Covenant) 3
(󲊺󲊺󲊺), Leadership 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Melee 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Piloting 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Ranged
(Heavy) 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺), Ranged (Light) 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Stealth 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Vigilance 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 4: Upgrade the difficulty of all combat
checks made against this target four times.
Abilities:
▪ Active Camo: As an incidental, may use active
camouflage, which upgrades their Stealth checks
by one and upgrades the difficulty to detect the
user by one.
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SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

▪F
 or the Glory of Salvation! Once per encounter DRONES (YANME'E)
as a maneuver, after suffering a Critical Injury,
Drones occupy an unusual place in the Covenant.
may take a number of strain equal to the severity
Their primary purpose is to serve as mechanics and
of the Critical Injury to ignore its effects until the
laborers, though their natural flight ability makes
end of the encounter.
them an ideal combat unit for ambushes. Insectoid
in appearance, Drones seem to have the ability to
Equipment:
lock their chitinous plates together to survive in
▪P
 lasma rifle (Ranged [Light]; Damage 7; vacuum, allowing them to conduct repairs and refits
Critical 2; Medium range; Burn 2, Plasma) to Covenant vessels. While not dangerous alone,
▪ Or needler pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; they can be a significant threat in a swarm.
Critical 3; Short range; Blast 8, Guided 3,
Pierce 2) DRONE MINOR [MINION]
▪C
 ovenant carbine (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7; Drone Minors serve in the infantry, able to use
Critical 3; Long range; Accurate 1) their aerial mobility to gain a superior firing position.
▪ Or beam rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 10; Individually they are not much of a threat, but when
Critical 2; Extreme range; Accurate 2, Breach 1, working in concert with other Covenant species
Plasma, Slow-Firing 1) they can become a force to be reckoned with. When
not on the front line, they are frequently engaged in
▪T
 win energy swords (Melee; Damage 10;
equipment maintenance.
Critical 2; Engaged range; Breach 1,
Cumbersome 3, Sunder, Vicious 3)
▪A
 rbiter's plate (soak +2, defense 2, Active Camo,
Shielded 3)
2 2 2 2 1 1
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE

3 3 1 1
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE

Skills (group only): Coordination, Mechanics,

Ranged (Light)

Talents: None

Abilities:
▪ Limited Flyer: As a maneuver, may take flight
and ignore the effects of difficult terrain or
ground-based cover; they must land at the end
of their following turn, unless in a low-g or
freefall environment.
▪ Vacuum Proof: Drones can lock their chitinous
plates to protect themselves in a vacuum;
when sealed, they lose their free maneuver.

Equipment:
▪P
 lasma pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6;
Critical 2; Short range; Burn 1, Guided 1
[only with Overcharge maneuver],
Overcharge, Plasma)
▪ Standard harness (soak +1, defense 1)

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 SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

DRONE MAJOR [MINION] DRONE SURVEYOR [MINION]

Drone Majors are made up of Drones who
distinguished themselves in combat. They do not
carry any command authority beyond Drone Minors
and Surveyors, but they will more often coordinate
with other Covenant units when engaging in battle.
Their primary role appears to be acting as overseer
to other Drones conducting repairs.
A rare sight on the battlefield, Drone Surveyors
are primarily concerned with repairing and
maintaining the Covenant's advanced technology.
They have a singular focus in this regard and will
often only fight or flee if there is a direct threat to
themselves. If deployed, Surveyors seem relegated
to reconnaissance roles only.

2 3 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 2 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE

3 4 1 1 4 4 1 1
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE

Skills (group only): Coordination, Discipline, Skills (group only): Hacking, Knowledge (Covenant),
Ranged (Light), Vigilance Mechanics, Sysops

Talents: None Talents: None

Abilities:
▪ Limited Flyer: As a maneuver, may take flight
and ignore the effects of difficult terrain or
ground-based cover; they must land at the end
of their following turn, unless in a low-g or
freefall environment.
▪ Vacuum Proof: Drones can lock their chitinous
plates to protect themselves in a vacuum;
when sealed, they lose their free maneuver.
Abilities:
▪ Limited Flyer: As a maneuver, may take flight
and ignore the effects of difficult terrain or
ground-based cover; they must land at the end
of their following turn, unless in a low-g or
freefall environment.
▪ Vacuum Proof: Drones can lock their chitinous
plates to protect themselves in a vacuum;
when sealed, they lose their free maneuver.

Equipment: Equipment:
▪N
 eedler pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical ▪P
 lasma pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6;
3; Short range; Blast 8, Guided 3, Pierce 2) Critical 2; Short range; Burn 1, Guided 1
▪ Standard harness (soak +1, defense 1) [only with Overcharge maneuver],
Overcharge, Plasma)
▪ Standard harness (soak +1, defense 1),
▪ Covenant multitool

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SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES
DRONE ULTRA [RIVAL]
Drone Ultras are the only Drones who have been
seen commanding other Covenant species, though
only Grunts. Otherwise, their duties appear to be
unchanged from their lower-ranked brethren, with
the exception of their leadership responsibilities.
3 4 3 3
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
4 10 1 1
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Coordination 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷), Hacking 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Knowledge (Covenant ) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Leadership 2 (󲊺󲊷), Mechanics 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Piloting 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷), Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷),
Sysops 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 1: Upgrade the difficulty of combat
checks made against this target once.
Abilities:
▪ Limited Flyer: As a maneuver, may take flight
and ignore the effects of difficult terrain or
ground-based cover; they must land at the end
of their following turn, unless in a low-g or
freefall environment.
▪ Vacuum Proof: Drones can lock their chitinous
plates to protect themselves in a vacuum;
when sealed, they lose their free maneuver.
Equipment:
▪N
 eedler pistol (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical
3; Short range; Blast 8, Guided 3, Pierce 2)
▪ Standard harness (soak +1, defense 1)
▪ Covenant multitool
OTHERS
ENGINEER [RIVAL]
Resembling nothing more than floating jellyfish,
Covenant Engineers (properly known as Huragok)
are a peculiar species. They are rarely seen, as
1 0 8 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
the Covenant seems to consider them a high-value
asset and keeps them away from direct combat.
They received their designation after analysts
studied recon footage that showed Engineers rapidly
deconstructing and reconstructing all manner of
technology, human or Covenant. They have also
been seen conducting battlefield repairs of Covenant
machinery while under heavy guard.
2 2 The armor worn by Engineers in the field
indicates their role in the Covenant may be coerced.
Their harnesses are armed with explosives that are
set to detonate if either the Engineer itself or the
nearest high-ranking Covenant leader is incapacitated.
ONI believes this means Engineers represent a
significant security threat to the Covenant, which
makes acquiring them a high priority for the UNSC.
2 3 4 3 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
3 12 2 2
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Cool 2 (󲊺󲊺), Hacking 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Knowledge (Covenant) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Knowledge (Forerunner) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷).
Mechanics 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Skulduggery 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Sysops 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷)
Talents: None
Abilities:
▪ Hoverer: Engineers are buoyant in most
atmospheres and can float and propel
themselves using their gas bladders.
They do not have to spend additional
maneuvers when navigating difficult terrain.
▪ Living Machine: When making Hacking,
Mechanics, and Sysops checks, they always
count as having the right tools for the job.
▪ Self-Destruct Mechanism: Should the Engineer
or its battlefield leader become incapacitated,
it will self-destruct as an out-of-turn incidental;
this explosion does 10 damage (Breach 1) to
engaged characters.
Equipment: Engineer armor (soak +1, defense 2)

SECURITY CONSTRUCT [RIVAL]
Despite their otherwise highly advanced technology,
the Covenant lags far behind the UNSC in the realm
of artificial intelligence. Based on anecdotal evidence
and digital forensics carried out by ONI, Covenant
AIs are severely limited, restricted to conducting
specific tasks. Few of the Covenant's members seem
to have the technical know-how to create or modify
programs, leading many analysts to conclude that
the creation and use of AIs violate some part of the
Covenant religion.
Worryingly, however, there is increasing
evidence that the Covenant has been successful in
capturing and reconstructing human AIs. While the
end result is haphazard at best, it indicates that the
Cole Protocol may have failed in several key areas,
as well as demonstrating that the Covenant is
seeking to make up the lost ground between their
constructs and humanity's.
N/A N/A 4 3 3 3
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
N/A 14 N/A N/A
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Coercion 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Cool 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Hacking 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷), Sysops 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷)
Talents: None
Abilities:
▪ Holographic: AIs cannot be affected by physical
conditions or maladies and do not need to eat or
sleep. When not on board a computer network or
terminal, AIs are considered physically present in
a holotank, armored matrix, or data crystal chip;
if the AI's current carrier is destroyed, the AI is
destroyed along with it.
▪ Overclocked: During structured time, AIs gain an
additional free maneuver per turn; they still may
not perform more than two maneuvers per turn.
▪ Rapid Calculations: Any combat check requiring
Agility instead uses Intellect.
Equipment: None
SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES
HUNTER [NEMESIS]
Hunters (properly known as Mgalekgolo) were
initially misclassified as a vehicle when first
encountered by UNSC forces, who thought they were
some kind of walking tanks. In reality, Hunters are
sapient colonies of worm creatures assembled into
massive bipedal forms. The Covenant outfits them
with armor made of starship-grade battle plate and
arm cannons capable of massive destruction. They
appear to have no regard for the lives or safety
of other Covenant species (with the exception of
battlefield leaders) making them a truly deadly
presence in combat.
Perhaps the most menacing quality of a Hunter
is that they are never alone: they operate in pairs,
acting in concert to corner and destroy their enemies.
This appears to be part of their culture, as the pair
shares a deep bond. Killing one will send the other
into a frenzy of death and destruction of everything
nearby, friend and foe alike. With their large size and
heavy armor, Hunters are often slow-moving, which
may allow the brave and agile to circle around to get
a shot at one of the Hunter's few vulnerable spots.
5 3 2 3 4 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
8 24 20 3 3
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Brawl 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Coercion 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Cool 2 (󲊺󲊺), Discipline 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Gunnery 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Melee 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Resilience 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Vigilance 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 4: Upgrade the difficulty of all combat
checks made against this target four times.
Abilities: Silhouette 2
Equipment:
 uel Rod Cannon (Gunnery; Damage 20; Critical
▪F
3; Long range; Blast 10, Breach 2, Cumbersome 4,
Slow Firing 1)
▪P
 late shield (Melee; Damage 8; Critical 2; Engaged
range; Defensive 2, Knockdown, Vicious 3)
▪ Hunter battle plate (soak +3, defense 3)
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SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

PROPHET [NEMESIS] Abilities:

The UNSC has not been able to confirm the existence ▪V
 oice of the Covenant: Once per encounter as
of the Prophets, or "San'Shyuum," but intercepted a maneuver, make a Hard (󲊷󲊷󲊷) Leadership
Covenant communications make frequent reference check; if successful, all Covenant characters
to these civil and religious leaders. They appear to who can hear this character (medium range if
hold a high degree of power within Covenant society, unassisted; extreme range or longer over COM)
representing the controlling power over most of the gain a free upgrade to their next skill check.
coalition. As such, they do not appear to travel to
the front lines, or when they do, they are afforded Equipment:
overwhelming defenses, making approach by UNSC ▪A
 ntigravity cannon (Gunnery; Damage 8;
assets impossible. Critical 3; Short range; Blast 4, Stun 4)
Plans crafted early in the war outlined
assassinations in order to bring an end to hostilities, ▪ Clerical vestments (soak +1)
but recently ONI has adopted a different approach. ▪ Antigravity throne (defense 3)
Accounts suggest that the death of a Prophet would
only accelerate the war, a prospect that would be
disastrous for humanity. Instead, the current plan is
to infiltrate deep behind enemy lines and capture a
Prophet for return to human space. With a hostage,
it may be possible to negotiate a cease-fire and bring
the twenty-six-year conflict to an end.

2 2 4 4 4 5
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE

3 17 15 3 3
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE

Skills: Charm 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),

Coercion 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺), Cool 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Deception 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Discipline 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Knowledge (Covenant) 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Knowledge (Forerunner) 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Leadership 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Negotiation 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Perception 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷)

Talents:
▪ I mproved Scathing Tirade: As an action,
make an Average (󲊷󲊷) Coercion check;
each 󲊳 inflicts 1 strain on a target in short
range; spend 󲊴 to inflict 1 additional strain
on one affected target; all affected targets
suffer 󲊸 to all checks for four rounds.
▪N
 obody's Fool 2: Upgrade the difficulty of Charm,
Coercion, and Deception checks targeting this
character twice.

1 1 0 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0

 SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

Humanity Talents: None

Until relatively recently, humanity has been its own Abilities: None
worst enemy. It brought terrestrial notions of war and
conflict with it as it expanded, colonizing hundreds of Equipment:
worlds across thousands of lightyears. The arrival of  ssault rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7;
▪A
the Covenant did much to unite the various factions Critical 3; Medium range; Auto-fire)
of humans, but old enmities are hard to forget.
Humans can be roughly sorted into three ▪O
 r DMR (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 8; Critical 3;
categories: the UNSC, the Insurrection, and civilians. Long range; Accurate 1)
The following profiles serve as stat blocks for human ▪C
 ombat knife (Melee; Damage 3; Critical 3;
NPCs across space, whether friend or foe, but Engaged range)
they are not meant to be exhaustive. Instead, they ▪ 2 frag grenades (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8;
represent the most likely people you might encounter Critical 4; Short range; Blast 6, Limited Ammo 1)
on your missions. GMs should feel free to modify any
of these stat blocks to serve their own purposes, ▪ Infantry armor (soak +2)
though we provide some guidance in the descriptions ▪ Utility belt
and sidebars below. ▪ Extra reloads

UNSC ARMY OFFICER [RIVAL]

The United Nations Space Command is composed of The Army's officer corps produces some of the
four service branches: the Army, the Navy, the Air most capable ground commanders in human space.
Force, and the Marines. Each branch has additional Calm under fire and sticklers for protocol, officers
subdivisions, most notably the Office of Naval can direct the troopers under their command in a
Intelligence, which serves as the intelligence service variety of situations. They are also the contact
for the UNSC as a whole. The people who make up person not just for their commanders, but for
the UNSC are stalwart defenders of humanity, and locals in need of assistance.
for all their factions and back-room politicking, they
are united under the common cause of safeguarding
mankind from extinction. 3 3 2 2 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
ARMY TROOPER [MINION]
5 15 0 0
For the everyday human citizen, the Army trooper
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
is the face of the UNSC. They are charged with
planetary defense and are frequently the children of
Skills: Cool 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Discipline 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
the worlds they protect. While they do not have the
Knowledge (UNSC) 2 (󲊺󲊺), Leadership 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
interstellar reputation of the Marines, they are no
Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Vigilance (󲊺󲊺)
less valiant or resolute in their duties.
Talents:

2 2 2 2 2 2 ▪ Adversary 1: Upgrade the difficulty of combat

checks made against this target once.
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE

4 4
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD
Skills (group only): Discipline, Driving,
Ranged (Heavy), Ranged (Light)
0 0 Abilities:
M/R DEFENSE ▪ Overwhelming Fire: May perform a maneuver
to direct one Army Trooper minion group within
medium range; the group may perform an
immediate free combat check action.

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SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

▪ Tactical Direction: May perform a maneuver Equipment:

to direct one Army Trooper minion group within ▪B
 attle rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
medium range; the group may perform an Long range; Accurate 1, Linked 2)
immediate free maneuver or add 󲊸 to its
next check. ▪O
 r assault rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7;
Critical 3; Medium range; Auto-fire)
Equipment: ▪C
 ombat knife (Melee; Damage 3; Critical 3;
 ssault rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7;
▪A Engaged range)
Critical 3; Medium range; Auto-fire) ▪ 2 frag grenades (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8;
▪ Or DMR (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 8; Critical 3; Critical 4; Short range; Blast 6, Limited Ammo 1)
Long range; Accurate 1). ▪ Infantry armor (soak +2)
▪S
 idearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3; ▪ Utility belt
Medium range) ▪ Extra reloads
▪ 2 frag grenades (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8;
Critical 4; Short range; Blast 6, Limited Ammo 1) MARINE OFFICER [RIVAL]
▪ Infantry armor (soak +2) When it comes to leading from the front, few do it
▪ Utility belt better than Marine officers. Passing through OCS
▪ Extra reloads is its own ordeal, and most officers had careers as
enlisted soldiers before that. These days, the bulk
of officers in the Marine Corps received battlefield
MARINE INFANTRY [MINION] commissions, as the war with the Covenant has led to
Marines are the planet-hopping, firefight-leading a severe attrition in leadership. But this has also led
frontline warriors of humanity. They are beholden to a great deal of respect for those who step up.
to the Navy for interstellar transport and supply but
otherwise have their own command structure. There
is a reason most propaganda posters put Marines 3 3 2 2 3 2
on them: they are renowned as the best there is, and
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
they fight every day to earn that reputation.
5 15 0 0

2 2 2 2 2 2
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE

Skills: Athletics 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Discipline 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),

BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
Knowledge (UNSC) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Leadership 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
4 5 0 0 Melee 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Ranged (Heavy) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Resilience 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Vigilance 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷)
Skills (group only): Athletics, Discipline, Driving,
Melee, Ranged (Heavy) Talents:
▪ Adversary 1: Upgrade the difficulty of combat
Talents: None checks made against this target once.

Abilities:
▪ Covering Fire: May spend a maneuver to add +1
ranged defense to up to three allied characters
or minion groups within short range until the
end of the next round; this does not stack with
multiple uses.
Abilities:
▪ Tactical Direction: May perform a maneuver
to direct one Marine Infantry minion group
within medium range; the group may perform
an immediate free maneuver or add 󲊸 to its
next check.

1 1 2 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0

 SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

Equipment: ▪ Utility belt

▪B
 attle rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 6; Critical 3; ▪ Extra reloads
Long range; Accurate 1, Linked 2)
▪ Or assault rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7; ORBITAL DROP SHOCK TROOPER [MINION]
Critical 3; Medium range; Auto-fire) The Orbital Drop Shock Troopers (ODSTs) are the
▪S
 idearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3; Marines' most famous special forces arm. They are
Medium range) trained to ride a variety of drop-pods through the
atmosphere, survive the harsh landing, and come out
▪ 2 frag grenades (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8;
fighting. Only Marines who show considerable combat
Critical 4; Short range; Blast 6, Limited Ammo 1)
prowess and unimpeachable self-conduct are invited
▪ Infantry armor (soak +2) to apply, and most of them go home disappointed
▪ Utility belt when they fail to pass the rigorous selection process.
▪ Extra reloads

HELLBRINGER [MINION]
3 3 2 2 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
The Hellbringers are a specialized unit that operate
in two-man teams and use flamethrowers, in 5 5 1 1
conjunction with heat-resistant armor, to uproot SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
entrenched infantry and raze enemy structures. They
have a high rate of attrition, as their role requires Skills (group only): Athletics, Discipline, Melee,
them to close with the enemy to a greater extent than Piloting, Ranged (Heavy), Ranged (Light), Vigilance
other types of infantry, but their effectiveness—both
in destructiveness as well as in psyops—cannot be Talents: None
overstated. They are typically deployed alongside
conventional Marine infantry forces and are Abilities:
subordinate to the Marine chain of command. ▪ Covering Fire: May spend a maneuver to
add +1 ranged defense to up to three allied

3 2 2 2 2 2 characters or minion groups within short

range until the end of the next round; this
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE does not stack with multiple uses.

5 4 0 0 Equipment:
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
▪B
 attle rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
Long range; Accurate 1, Linked 2)
Skills (group only): Brawl, Discipline,
Ranged (Heavy), Vigilance ▪O
 r silenced SMG (Ranged [Light]; Damage 5;
Critical 4; Short range; Auto-fire, upgrade
Talents: None difficulty of checks made to detect shots
and locate wielder)
Abilities: None ▪S
 ilenced sidearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 5;
Critical 4; Medium range; upgrade difficulty of
Equipment: checks made to detect shots and locate wielder)
▪F
 lamethrower (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 8; ▪C
 ombat knife (Melee; Damage 3; Critical 3;
Critical 2; Short range; Burn 3, Blast 8) Engaged range)
▪S
 idearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3; ▪ 2 frag grenades (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8;
Medium range) Critical 4; Short range; Blast 6, Limited Ammo 1)
▪ Hellbringer armor (soak +2)

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SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

▪ ODST armor (soak +2, defense 1) ▪ Duty uniform (soak +1)

▪ Utility belt
▪ Extra reloads
ODST OFFICERS
As ODSTs are Marines, they answer to the
Marine chain of command in the field. If you
need an ODST officer profile, simply use the
Marine Officer profile above and replace their
infantry armor with ODST armor.
▪ Inventory data pad
MILITARY POLICE [RIVAL]
Soldiers in the military police serve as base security
in a variety of locations, but their skillset remains
mostly the same. They are vigilant for potential
threats and relentless in their pursuit of soldiers who
have broken the law. Identified mainly by the black
"MP" armband they wear, they are equally at home
walking patrols, standing guard in stations, or visiting
local establishments to check day passes.

3 3 2 3 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
QUARTERMASTER [RIVAL]
5 12 0 0
When it comes to managing a base or ship's gear,
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
the quartermaster is the undisputed boss. Squads
must do their best to stay on a quartermaster's good
Skills: Coercion 2 (󲊺󲊺), Discipline 2 (󲊺󲊺),
side, courting their favor to get access to restricted
Perception 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Ranged (Heavy) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
equipment and begging forgiveness for gear
Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Vigilance 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊷)
returned in poor condition. The UNSC treats all of its
equipment as precious, and it is the responsibility of
Talents: None
the quartermaster to ensure it all remains functional
and available for the next person who needs it.
Abilities: None

2 2 2 2 3 1 Equipment:
▪A
 ssault rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7;
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
Critical 3; Medium range; Auto-fire)
3 12 0 0 ▪ Or shotgun (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 8;
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE Critical 3; Short range; Blast 5, Knockdown,
Vicious 2)
Skills: Discipline 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Negotiation 3 (󲊺󲊷󲊷),
▪S
 idearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
Streetwise 2 (󲊺󲊺)
Medium range)

Talents: ▪T
 runcheon (Melee; Damage 5; Critical 5;
Engaged range; Disorient 2)
▪N
 obody's Fool 1: Upgrade difficulty of Charm,
Coercion, and Deception checks targeting the ▪ Infantry armor (soak +2)
quartermaster once. ▪ Handcuffs

Abilities: None.

Equipment:
▪S
 idearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
Medium range)

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 SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

ONI AGENT [RIVAL] NAVY COMMANDER [NEMESIS]

It is said that the Office of Naval Intelligence has
eyes everywhere, and ONI has done little to dissuade
people of the notion. Called "spooks" by both enlisted
personnel and officers, ONI agents are infamous for
their apparent ability to ferret out the most secret
and closely guarded information. Their focus is
mostly on the Covenant these days, but sometimes
it is necessary for them to turn their attention to
matters closer to home.
The rank of commander in the UNSC Navy brings with
it special privileges but also grave responsibilities,
including command of a starship. Those who are
chosen for this path must be unshakeable, able to
weather the brutal reality of ship-to-ship combat
against the Covenant. While some have proven unfit
for their role, most commanders are only too aware
that they and their crew might be called upon to
make the ultimate sacrifice, and they stand ready
for that day.

2 3 2 3 3 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
2 2 3 3 4 4
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
3 14 1 1
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE 3 12 12 0 0
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Charm 2 (󲊺󲊺), Cool 2 (󲊺󲊺),
Deception 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Melee 2 (󲊺󲊺), Skills: Astronav 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Charm 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Perception 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Cool 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Discipline 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Skulduggery 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Stealth 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Gunnery 2 (󲊺󲊺), Leadership 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Survival 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷) Operating 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺)

Talents: Talents:
▪ Adversary 1: Upgrade the difficulty of combat ▪ Adversary 2: Upgrade the difficulty of combat
checks made against this target once. checks made against this target twice.
▪ Commanding Presence: Remove 󲊸 from Cool
Abilities: None and Leadership checks.

Equipment: ▪ Fire Control: As an action, perform Fire Control

action; make all combat checks made from
▪S
 ilenced sidearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 5; current vessel or vehicle count their target's
Critical 4; Medium range; upgrade difficulty of silhouette as one higher than normal until the
checks made to detect shots and locate wielder) beginning of next turn.
▪C
 ombat knife (Melee; Damage 3; Critical 3;
Engaged range) Abilities: None
▪ Body armor (soak +1, defense 1)
Equipment:
▪ Encrypted data pad
 idearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
▪S
Medium range)
▪ Duty uniform (soak +1)

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SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

AIR FORCE PILOT [MINION] Talents:

Air superiority has long been understood as vital ▪ Adversary 1: Upgrade the difficulty of combat
in combat, and the UNSC Air Force's mission is to checks made against this target once.
control the skies. Pilots go through rigorous training
in order to fly aircraft and spacecraft, and while most Abilities: None
of them covet the glory of being a fighter pilot, many
also become dropship and helicopter pilots, ferrying Equipment:
troops and offering support to units on the ground. ▪S
 idearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
It may be less flashy, but it is a deeply appreciated Medium range)
role by the ground-pounders who depend on them.
The other branches also have pilots. This profile ▪ Flight suit (soak +1)
can be used for all of them.
AIR FORCE MAJOR [NEMESIS]

2 3 2 3 2 2 Being a great pilot will only get you so far. To

reach the upper echelons of command, you need to
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE demonstrate an aptitude for organization. Air Force
Majors and other command-level officers are just
3 5 0 0 as much bureaucrats as they are sky jockeys, much
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
to their chagrin. They often find the most rewarding
work in commanding their squadrons, bringing
Skills (group only): Cool, Gunnery, Piloting together a dozen different personalities into displays
of daring and skill, but few would turn down the
Talents: None opportunity to once again sit behind the stick and
hunt glory in the skies.
Abilities: None

Equipment:
2 4 2 4 3 3
 idearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
▪S BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
Medium range)
▪ Flight suit (soak +1) 3 15 14 0 0
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE

AIR FORCE CAPTAIN [RIVAL] Skills: Cool 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Discipline 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),

In the Human-Covenant War, skill behind the stick
guarantees swift promotion. It is a hard truth that
pilots have some of the riskiest assignments, and a
significant percentage do not come back alive from
their duties. Captains in the Air Force are often relied
upon to show the newest squadron members the
ropes, as well as lead squadrons into battle.
Gunnery 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Knowledge (UNSC) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Leadership 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Piloting 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Ranged (Light) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 2: Upgrade the difficulty of combat
checks made against this target twice.

2 4 2 3 2 2 Abilities: None

BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE Equipment:

3 12 0 0 ▪S
 idearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Medium range)
▪ Flight suit (soak +1)
Skills: Cool 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Gunnery 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷),
Piloting 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷)

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AI OPERATOR [NEMESIS]
Artificial intelligences are among the most potent
weapons in the UNSC's arsenal. They are capable of
accomplishing dozens of tasks in a matter of seconds,
carrying out complex electronic warfare attacks, and
serving as an interface between a starship and its
human crews. Physical limitations and astronomical
cost prevent AIs from being used and deployed
more widely, but it is noteworthy that the Covenant
does not appear to have anything on the same level,
affording humanity a distinct advantage.
N/A N/A 4 4 4 3
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
N/A N/A 20
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD
Skills: Astronav 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Charm 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Coercion 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Cool 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Discipline 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Gunnery 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷), Hacking 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Knowledge (UNSC) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷),
Negotiation 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Operating 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Sysops 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺), Vigilance 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷)
Talents:
▪N
 obody's Fool 3: Upgrade the difficulty of Charm,
Coercion, and Deception checks targeting this
character three times.
Abilities:
▪ Overclocked: During structured time, they
gain an additional free maneuver per turn;
they still may not perform more than two
maneuvers per turn.
▪ Rapid Calculations: For AIs, any combat
checks requiring Agility instead use Intellect.
Equipment: Memory chip
SPARTAN COMMANDO [NEMESIS]
For years, the existence of the Spartans was
classified. Rumors leaked out, whispered by those
who had seen Spartans in action: stories of massive,
armored figures tearing through entire battalions
of foes, gold visors glinting in the fires of their
destructive path. In 2547, in order to boost morale
SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES
among the fleet, ONI declassified select portions of
the Spartan program, confirming that humanity did
indeed have supersoldiers helping to stem the alien
onslaught. It is said that, as impressive as they are,
there are not enough Spartans to turn the tide of the
war. But those who have encountered them know
that a single Spartan could be the difference between
humanity's survival and its extinction.
5 4 3 4 3 3
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
12
SOAK VALUE
21 18
WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD
2 2
M/R DEFENSE
N/A N/A Skills: Athletics 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷),
M/R DEFENSE
Brawl 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Cool 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Discipline 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Driving 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Knowledge (UNSC) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Melee 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Perception 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Piloting 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Ranged (Heavy) 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Ranged (Light) 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Resilience 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Stealth 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Survival 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Vigilance 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺)
Talents:
▪ Adversary 3: Upgrade the difficulty of combat
checks targeting this character three times.
Abilities:
▪ Augmented: When making Brawn or Agility
checks, Spartans add an automatic 󲊳 to
their results.
Equipment:
▪B
 attle rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
Long range; Accurate 1, Linked 2)
▪ Or assault rifle (Ranged [Heavy]; Damage 7;
Critical 3; Medium range; Auto-fire)
▪ 2 SMGs (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
Short range; Auto-fire)
▪C
 ombat knife (Melee; Damage 3; Critical 3;
Engaged range)
▪ 4 frag grenades (Ranged [Light]; Damage 8;
Critical 4; Short range; Blast 6, Limited Ammo 1)
▪M
 JOLNIR Armor Mk. V (soak +2, defense 2,
Powered, Shielded 3)
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SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES
THE INSURRECTION
Starting in the 25th century and carrying on until
the arrival of the Covenant, the Insurrection was
the UNSC's primary foe. It is made up of a number
of smaller cells and organizations, all with the goal
of liberating some or all of the UEG's colonies from
Earth's control and making them independent. They
have had varying levels of support from the public,
primarily among the Outer Colonies. With the onset
of the Human-Covenant War and the destruction
of their homes by a hostile alien coalition, most
Insurrectionists have chosen to set aside their
animosity in favor of cooperation. Some factions
remain hostile to the UNSC, even going so far as to
try to strike a deal with the Covenant, while others
are content to wait until humanity is safe from
extermination before resuming their struggles for
freedom and independence.
INSURGENT [MINION]
There is some manner of insurgent on every human-
occupied world, forming local militias and demanding
autonomy from the UNSC to varying degrees. While
they are frequent antagonists, many insurgents are
willing to fight alongside the UNSC if it means saving
their homes from the Covenant. They are also more
likely to remain behind after the UNSC decides a
colony is too far gone, making guerilla attacks against
any remaining Covenant forces.
2 2 2 2 2 2
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
3 4 0 0
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills (group only): Melee, Ranged (Light), Vigilance
Talents: None
Abilities: None
Equipment:
 MG (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
▪S
Medium range; Auto-fire)
▪O
 r sidearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
Short range)
▪ Heavy clothing (soak +1)
1 1 8 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0
IDEALISTS OR OPPORTUNISTS?
In the HALO universe, the Insurrection tends
to be portrayed strictly as a military enemy.
However, it is worth considering what
pushes its members to rebel and whether
or not they may have a point.
While it is never discussed in the
games, HALO novels and comics portray
human space as being under strict military
authority. The UNSC has taken over virtually
every aspect of civilian life under the
pretense of stopping the Covenant invasion.
It might be necessary, but it has reduced the
UEG to a puppet state. One can imagine how
people in the colonies might feel about this.
Should you choose to portray the
Insurrection in your game, consider this:
does it represent a legitimate concern with
the UNSC's governance, and its members
are doing what they feel is necessary to
protect their homes and loved ones? Or
are they using the opportunity of the war
to seize power and control for themselves,
in the hopes that after the war the UNSC
will be too weak to take it back? Whatever
you choose will have a significant impact
on how your game unfolds.
AGITATOR [RIVAL]
Agitators do the work to get local populations
worked up over the UNSC's actions and military
authoritarianism. Most agitators come from dissident
populations, writers and artists who are speaking out
against the UEG and UNSC, but some might be militia
members trusted with getting the message out.
Agitators are persuasive and fiery, able to move
their audiences to action.
2 2 2 3 2 3
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
3 13 0 0
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
 SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

Skills: Charm 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Coercion 2 (󲊺󲊺), Abilities:

Deception 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷) ▪ Destabilizing Influence: As a maneuver once
per encounter, may add 󲊱 to all subsequent
Talents: Cool and Discipline checks made by enemies
▪ Scathing Tirade: May spend an action to make within medium range for the remainder of
an Average (󲊷󲊷) Coercion check; each 󲊳 the encounter.
causes one enemy in close range to suffer 1 ▪ Unremarkable 2: Add 󲊰󲊰 to any checks made to
strain; spend 󲊴 to cause 1 affected enemy find or identify an infiltrator in a crowd or group.
to suffer 1 additional strain.
Equipment:
Abilities: None
▪S
 idearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
Equipment: Short range)

▪S
 idearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3; ▪O
 r combat knife (Melee; Damage 4; Critical 3;
Short range) Engaged range)

▪ Durable clothing (soak +1) ▪S

 tun knuckles (Brawl; Damage 4; Critical 4;
Engaged range; Disorient 1, Knockdown)
▪ Inflammatory pamphlets and propaganda
▪ Duty uniform (soak +1)

INFILTRATOR [RIVAL] ▪ Encrypted data pad

Infiltrators for the Insurrection worm their way into
any organization they can use to further their goals,
including the UNSC. Gifted with a calm demeanor and
armed with forged documents to gain them access,
they are shadows who carry out espionage, sabotage,
and even targeted killing when necessary. ONI makes
a point to find these individuals, though they do not
always immediately arrest them. Sometimes it is
more useful to know who your enemy is and observe
what they do.
▪ Forged orders
REVOLUTIONARY [NEMESIS]
Functioning as the political and military leaders of
the Insurrection, revolutionaries strive to embody
the virtues of freedom and liberty that they espouse.
Some are more successful than others, inspiring
entire populations with their messages of hope and
self-determination, while others simply use fear and
violence to motivate their followers. Revolutionaries
tend to be either close allies of the UNSC or high-

3 3 2 3 4 1 value targets for them, with ONI going to great

lengths to neutralize would-be Insurrection leaders
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE before they become a problem.

4 13 0 0
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
2 3 2 4 4 3
Skills: Coercion 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Deception 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE

Discipline 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Knowledge (UNSC) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊷) 3 19 16 1 1

Talents:
▪ I mproved Scathing Tirade: As an action,
make an Average (󲊷󲊷) Coercion check;
each 󲊳 inflicts 1 strain on a target in short
range; spend 󲊴 to inflict 1 additional strain
on one affected target; all affected targets
suffer 󲊸 to all checks for four rounds.
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Skills: Charm 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Coercion 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷),
Cool 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Deception 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Discipline 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷), Knowledge (UNSC) 1 (󲊺󲊷),
Leadership 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Melee 2 (󲊺󲊺),
Ranged (Light) 1 (󲊺󲊷󲊷)

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SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

Talents: and a following on Waypoint can make a name for

▪ Adversary 2: Upgrade difficulty of combat checks themselves. Wartime traffic restrictions usually
made against this target once. prevent them from leaving their home planet, but
the UNSC is known to sometimes take celebrities on
▪ Inspiring Rhetoric: As an action, make an "victory tours" across the colonies, stopping at major
Average (󲊷󲊷) Leadership check; each 󲊳 population centers and military bases.
removes 1 strain or wound from one ally in
short range; spend 󲊴 to remove an additional
strain or wound from an affected ally.
2 3 2 3 2 3
Abilities: BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE

▪ Rebel Leader: Insurrectionist characters 2 13 0 0

add 󲊸 to all Vigilance and Perception checks SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
when in the revolutionary's presence.
Skills: Charm 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Cool 1 (󲊺󲊷󲊷),
Equipment: Deception 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺), Melee 2 (󲊺󲊺),
Vigilance 2 (󲊺󲊺)
▪S
 idearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3;
Short range)
Talents: None
▪ Or combat knife (Melee; Damage 4; Critical 3;
Engaged range) Abilities: None
▪T
 runcheon (Melee; Damage 4; Critical 5;
Engaged range; Disorient 2) Equipment: None
▪ Body armor (soak +1, defense 1)
COLONIAL GOVERNOR [NEMESIS]
Colonial governors serve as the highest civilian
authority on a colony. They have staffs at their
CIVILIANS disposal and considerable resources to throw at
Despite the war and destruction unfolding across all manner of problems. Many had military careers
known space, life goes on. Civilians work, relax, raise prior to becoming politicians. While most governors
families, and pursue interests on every human world. are elected, some are appointed by the UEG,
Many follow recent developments in the war, some particularly if their predecessors unexpectedly
with more anxiety than others, ever watchful for the left office before the completion of their terms.
day when Covenant ships appear in their skies. But
the business of living takes most of their focus, and
the careful efforts of ONI's propaganda section keeps 2 2 3 4 3 4
panic from spreading.
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
The profiles below are intended to represent
the civilians that squads may interact with, either 3 14 14 1 1
on a mission or on leave. They can also be used for SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
military personnel with specialties, such as medics
and engineers. Skills: Charm 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Coercion 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Cool 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷), Deception 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
CELEBRITY [RIVAL] Knowledge (UNSC) 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Leadership 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Perception 4 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊺),
Across human space, celebrities work to raise morale Piloting 2 (󲊺󲊺), Ranged (Light) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
and increase awareness of issues and events. These Resilience 2 (󲊺󲊺), Skulduggery 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
people take many forms: actors, musicians, news Streetwise 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷), Vigilance 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷)
anchors, and anybody with a strong enough presence

1 2 0 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0

 SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

Talents: MECHANIC [RIVAL]

▪ I mproved Inspiring Rhetoric: As an action,
make an Average (󲊷󲊷) Leadership check;
each 󲊳 removes 1 strain or wound from one ally
in short range; spend 󲊴 to remove an additional
strain or wound from an affected ally; all affected
allies add 󲊸 to all checks for three rounds.
▪N
 obody's Fool 2: Upgrade the difficulty of Charm,
Coercion, and Deception checks targeting this
character twice.
Those who work well with machines can find gainful
employment as a mechanic anywhere in human
space. Whether it is a military hangar or a civilian
garage, mechanics are natural gearheads with a lot of
knowledge and experience they can use to fix almost
any problem. When introduced to a system they are
unfamiliar with, they also possess the know-how to
do the research required to complete repairs.

Abilities: 2 2 3 3 2 2
▪ Leader: All subordinates within medium range BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE

add 󲊸 to Discipline checks. 2 12 0 0

SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
Equipment:
▪S
 idearm (Ranged [Light]; Damage 6; Critical 3; Skills: Astronav 1 (󲊺󲊷󲊷), Hacking 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Short range) Knowledge (UNSC) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Mechanics 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Streetwise 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷)
▪ Body armor (soak +1, defense 1)

Talents: None
LABOR CHIEF [RIVAL]
Labor chiefs organize work crews, manage Abilities: None
inventories, and generally handle whatever is
asked of them on a day-to-day basis. They usually Equipment:
command the respect of those around them thanks ▪H
 eavy wrench (Melee; Damage 5; Critical 4;
to their tireless efforts and willingness to stand Engaged range; Inaccurate 1)
up to anyone who might jeopardize the health
and safety of their workers. ▪ Toolkit

PHYSICIAN [RIVAL]
3 2 3 2 2 1 Doctors, nurses, and paramedics are celebrated
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE across the UNSC for their healing abilities. They
come from a wide range of backgrounds and feature
4 10 0 0 a broad swath of personality types, but they are all
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE united by their devotion to the health and well-being
of the people in their care.
Skills: Mechanics 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷), Melee 1 (󲊺󲊷󲊷),
Sysops 1 (󲊺󲊷󲊷)

Talents: None
2 2 4 2 2 3
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE

Abilities: 2 12 0 0
▪S
 tubborn and Dependable: Remove 󲊸 from SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
all checks.
Skills: Knowledge (UNSC) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷),
Equipment: Work coveralls (soak +1) Medicine 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Sysops 1 (󲊺󲊷󲊷󲊷)

WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0 // 121

SECTION 04. ADVERSARIES

Talents: UEG SENATOR [NEMESIS]

▪ Surgeon 2: When making a Medicine check Senators of the UEG rarely leave Earth, but sometimes
to help a character heal wounds, the target duty calls them to travel to their home planets or
heals 2 additional wounds. conduct inspections of UNSC fleets and facilities.
Those on the Senate Armed Forces Committee will
Abilities: None frequently find themselves overseeing special projects
they authorized and reporting back to the UEG, as well
Equipment: Field medkit, painkillers as managing legislative oversight of the UNSC as a
whole. When traveling, they are considered VIPs and
TRAFFIC CONTROLLER [RIVAL] afforded every protection available.

Despite the restriction on civilian space travel, traffic

controllers still have plenty to do, coordinating
everything from training flights to relief missions to
2 2 3 2 3 4
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE
evacuation operations. They are exceptionally skilled
at organization and able to stay calm no matter the 2 12 14 0 0
pressure of the situation. SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD STRAIN THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE

2 2 2 2 2 4 Skills: Charm 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊺󲊷), Cool 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷),

Deception 1 (󲊺󲊷), Knowledge (UNSC) 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷),
BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE Negotiation 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷)

3 12 0 0 Talents:
SOAK VALUE WOUND THRESHOLD M/R DEFENSE
▪C
 ommanding Presence 2: Remove 󲊸󲊸 from
Skills: Charm 2 (󲊺󲊺󲊷󲊷), Coercion 1 (󲊺󲊷), Leadership checks.
Cool 1 (󲊺󲊷󲊷󲊷), Knowledge (UNSC) 3 (󲊺󲊺󲊷)
Abilities:
Talents: None ▪W
 orks Like a Charm: Once per session, the UEG
senator may make one skill check using Presence
Abilities: None rather than the characteristic linked to that skill.

Equipment: Encrypted data pad Equipment:

▪ Bodyguards
▪ Data pad

1 2 2 // WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0

CHARACTER //
CHARACTER NAME
WINTER
ARCHETYPE CONTINGENCY
CAREER A Theme for the Genesys Roleplaying Game
Set in the HALO Universe
PLAYER NAME
(Beta Playtest v. 0.1.0)

CHARACTERISTICS //
UNPOWERED UNPOWERED

POWERED POWERED

BRAWN AGILITY INTELLECT CUNNING WILLPOWER PRESENCE

DERIVED ATTRIBUTES // EQUIPPED WEAPONS //

THRESHOLD CURRENT NAME SPECIAL REQ

SKILL DMG CRIT RNG ENC HP CONDITION

SOAK VALUE WOUNDS NAME SPECIAL REQ

RANGED MELEE THRESHOLD CURRENT SKILL DMG CRIT RNG ENC HP CONDITION

NAME SPECIAL REQ

DEFENSE STRAIN SKILL DMG CRIT RNG ENC HP CONDITION

SKILLS //
GENERAL SKILLS CHAR RANK COMBAT SKILLS CHAR RANK
ASTRONAV INT BRAWL BR
ATHLETICS BR GUNNERY AG
COOL PR MELEE BR
COORDINATION AG RANGED-HEAVY AG
DISCIPLINE WIL RANGED-LIGHT AG
DRIVING AG
SOCIAL SKILLS CHAR RANK
HACKING INT
CHARM PR
MECHANICS INT
COERCION WIL
MEDICINE INT
DECEPTION CUN
OPERATING INT
LEADERSHIP PR
PERCEPTION CUN
NEGOTIATION PR
PILOTING AG
RESILIENCE BR KNOWLEDGE SKILLS CHAR RANK
COVENANT INT
RIDING AG
FORERUNNER INT
SKULDUGGERY CUN
UNSC INT
SYSOPS INT
STEALTH AG CUSTOM SKILLS CHAR RANK
STREETWISE CUN
SURVIVAL CUN
VIGILANCE WIL
EQUIPMENT // EXPERIENCE //
GEAR TOTAL AVAILABLE

ENC REQ ENC REQ

ENC REQ ENC REQ

ENC REQ ENC REQ MOTIVATIONS //

STRENGTH
ENC REQ ENC REQ

ENC REQ ENC REQ

ENC REQ ENC REQ

ENC REQ ENC REQ

FLAW
ENC REQ ENC REQ

ENC REQ ENC REQ

ENC REQ ENC REQ

ARMOR DESIRE
NAME SPECIAL

DEF SOAK ENC HP CONDITION

REQUISITION ENCUMBRANCE
RATING THRESHOLD CURRENT THRESHOLD CURRENT FEAR

TALENTS & SPECIAL ABILITIES //

NAME PAGE ABILITY SUMMARY
CHARACTER DESCRIPTION //
RANK
AGE
GENDER
HEIGHT
BUILD
HAIR
EYES
NOTABLE FEATURES

CRITICAL INJURIES //

WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0

LOADOUT // EQUIPPED
WEAPONS GEAR
NAME SPECIAL REQ ENC REQ

SKILL DMG CRIT RNG ENC HP CONDITION ENC REQ

NAME SPECIAL REQ ENC REQ

SKILL DMG CRIT RNG ENC HP CONDITION ENC REQ

NAME SPECIAL REQ ENC REQ

SKILL DMG CRIT RNG ENC HP CONDITION ENC REQ

ARMOR ENC REQ

NAME SPECIAL
ENC REQ
DEF SOAK ENC HP CONDITION
ENC REQ

ENC REQ
TOTAL REQUISITION TOTAL ENCUMBRANCE
THIS LOADOUT THRESHOLD CURRENT THIS LOADOUT THRESHOLD CURRENT ENC REQ

ENC REQ

LOADOUT // EQUIPPED
WEAPONS GEAR
NAME SPECIAL REQ ENC REQ

SKILL DMG CRIT RNG ENC HP CONDITION ENC REQ

NAME SPECIAL REQ ENC REQ

SKILL DMG CRIT RNG ENC HP CONDITION ENC REQ

NAME SPECIAL REQ ENC REQ

SKILL DMG CRIT RNG ENC HP CONDITION ENC REQ

ARMOR ENC REQ

NAME SPECIAL
ENC REQ
DEF SOAK ENC HP CONDITION
ENC REQ

ENC REQ
TOTAL REQUISITION TOTAL ENCUMBRANCE
THIS LOADOUT THRESHOLD CURRENT THIS LOADOUT THRESHOLD CURRENT ENC REQ

ENC REQ

NOTES //

WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0

VEHICLE //
VEHICLE NAME COMPLEMENT
MAKE/MODEL PASSENGER CAPACITY
CONTROL SKILL CONSUMABLES
DETAILS CUSTOMIZATION HARDPOINTS
REQUISITION

DEFENSE ARMOR
CAPACITY

CURRENT

SILHOUETTE MAX SPEED HANDLING HT THRESHOLD SS THRESHOLD ENCUMBRANCE

ONBOARD WEAPONS //
NAME SPECIAL SCALE

SKILL DMG CRIT RNG FIRE ARC CONDITION

NAME SPECIAL SCALE

SKILL DMG CRIT RNG FIRE ARC CONDITION

NAME SPECIAL SCALE

SKILL DMG CRIT RNG FIRE ARC CONDITION

NAME SPECIAL SCALE

SKILL DMG CRIT RNG FIRE ARC CONDITION

NAME SPECIAL SCALE

SKILL DMG CRIT RNG FIRE ARC CONDITION

NAME SPECIAL SCALE

SKILL DMG CRIT RNG FIRE ARC CONDITION

CARGO // NOTES //
ENC REQ

ENC REQ

ENC REQ

ENC REQ

ENC REQ

ENC REQ

ENC REQ

ENC REQ

ENC REQ

ENC REQ

ENC REQ

ENC REQ

WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0

TALENT PYRAMID // PURCHASING TALENTS
Your first purchased talent must be Tier 1.
Record it in the first box on this sheet, in the
upper left hand corner. To work your way down
the pyramid, you must fill in talents left-to-right,
top-to-bottom. (Ex. To purchase your first Tier 2
talent, you must have two Tier 1 talents.)
PAGE NO. ACTIVE
For further guidance, please see CRB page 71.

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WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0

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WINTER CONTINGENCY // PLAYTEST BETA v.0.1.0

"Winter Contingency has been declared.
All units are mobilized and ready."

It is the year 2551. Humanity is at war with a hegemonic alien coalition known as the Covenant.

And we are losing.

With billions of people dead and hundreds of worlds reduced to glass, time is growing short
for the United Nations Space Command to turn the tide of battle. The fortress world of Reach
is the only stronghold of military power left, and the location of Earth must be safeguarded
at all costs. It is up to the individual soldiers, sailors, and Marines of the UNSC to hold back
the enemy's onslaught, but humanity has a few cards left to play. Among them are cunning
artificial intelligences, masters of information warfare and infiltrating the enemy's computer
networks, and the Spartans, augmented supersoldiers who are few in number but able to wipe
out entire enemy divisions. Whatever role you choose to take as humankind's defender, this
sourcebook will help you navigate the battlefield full of alien monstrosities, shadowy rebels,
and otherworldly threats not yet discovered. Failure carries the risk of extinction, and your
survival is not guaranteed.

This fan-made supplement for the Genesys roleplaying game includes:

 haracter creation options for the UNSC, including archetypes, careers, skills, and
▪C
talents appropriate for the HALO universe. Whether you're thinking of playing a driven
and capable human, a savvy and technical AI, or a lethal and iconic Spartan, you'll find
plenty of options to make yourself a unique part of the galaxy.
▪W
 eapons, armor, vehicles, and other equipment you'll need to root out the
Insurrectionists, defeat the Covenant, and explore the enigmatic Forerunner ruins
across the galaxy. Get behind the wheel of a Warthog, jump into hell in an orbital drop
pod, or take command of a Halcyon-class cruiser and bring the fight to the enemy.
▪A
 n overview of the human side of the Great War, including the history of the United
Earth Government, details on the UNSC's branches and organization, and information
on running network encounters in HALO. Discover the origins of the mysterious
SPARTAN-II program and prepare your AI to infiltrate the Covenant battlenet.
▪D
 ozens of stat blocks covering the many adversaries and allies you might encounter
in your campaign to save humanity and stop the genocidal Covenant. Only you hold the
key to our salvation...

And don't miss the companion supplement, STATION & SALVATION, which tells the story from
the Covenant's perspective and advances the story to 2552.

HALO is © and ™ Microsoft and 343 Industries, 2022. All rights reserved.

This is an unofficial role-playing game made by fans. You are free to modify and distribute
this rulebook as you see fit, provided this warning remains unaltered.