Halo: Combat Evolved
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Halo: Combat Evolved

Halo: Combat Evolved

Bungie
2001

The legendary first-person shooter that launched the Xbox franchise, featuring numerous physics exploits, grenade jumps, and sequence breaks that have been refined by speedrunners for over two decades.

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Halo

Halo is the second campaign level in Halo: Combat Evolved. This open outdoor level is perfect for vehicle-based glitches and features some of the most iconic speedrun tricks in the game.


Tailwhip Launch (Warthog Fling)

The most important speedrun trick on this level—launch yourself into the Forerunner complex far faster than walking.

How to Perform

  1. As the level starts, immediately head toward a Warthog
  2. Drive toward the Forerunner structure entrance
  3. Build up moderate speed
  4. Turn the Warthog sharply left or right
  5. Jump out of the vehicle at the apex of the turn
  6. The rear-left tire should hit you, launching you into the air
  7. Aim your trajectory toward the Forerunner entrance

Tips for Success

  • Don't go too fast—moderate speed gives better control
  • The timing of your exit is critical
  • Practice the turn angle to get consistent launches
  • This saves approximately 5+ seconds compared to walking

Beginning Grenade Jump

Skip the first enemy spawn and Banshees by grenade jumping at the start.

How to Perform

  1. As the level starts, run toward the river
  2. Use the large rock to jump onto a rock ledge
  3. Throw a grenade at your feet
  4. Jump as the grenade explodes to reach the cliff above

Benefits

  • Skips the first enemy spawn ahead
  • Avoids the Banshees that normally harass you
  • Saves approximately 5 seconds in speedruns

Cliff Shortcuts

Various cliff-jumping routes can save time throughout the level.

River Cliff Skip

  1. At the river section, look for climbable rock formations
  2. Use grenade jumps or careful platforming to reach higher ground
  3. Skip portions of the intended walking path

Forerunner Approach

Multiple routes exist to approach the Forerunner structures:

  • Direct tailwhip into the entrance
  • Cliff routes around enemy spawns
  • Grenade jump sequences over barriers

Vehicle Physics Exploits

The open terrain makes this level ideal for experimenting with Halo CE's physics.

Ghost Boosting

  1. While in a Ghost, hold the boost button
  2. Press jump/A to tilt the Ghost's nose up
  3. This allows sharper turns while maintaining boost speed

Warthog Launching

  • Any sharp turn while exiting a Warthog can launch you
  • Experiment with different speeds and angles
  • The physics are consistent once you learn the timing

Tips

  • Master the tailwhip—it's used throughout the speedrun community
  • The beginning grenade jump is worth learning even for casual play
  • Vehicle physics in CE are unique and take practice to master

See Also