A fan-made mode for Halo Infinite called Helljumpers is on its way, heavily inspired by the gameplay of Helldivers 2. This new mode revives the dream of a potential Halo spin-off featuring the ODST (Orbital Drop Shock Troopers), an idea that was once pitched but never greenlit by 343 Industries, the developers of Halo.
This fan project is the result of superforgers—highly skilled community members—taking it upon themselves to create what the official team didn’t, rekindling excitement among the game’s fanbase.
The idea of an ODST game akin to Helldivers 2 emerged after a former Halo developer revealed that multiple spin-off pitches had been rejected by 343 Industries, including one that closely resembled the gameplay style of Helldivers 2, one of this year’s major shooter releases.
Rather than dwelling on missed opportunities, a team of fans decided to create their own version of that ODST experience using Halo Infinite’s Forge mode, a toolset that enables players to craft their own custom maps and game types. Their creation, Helljumpers, is set to release soon.
In Helljumpers, players will control four Spartans dropped into an open map where they must complete various objectives while battling waves of alien enemies. The fan-made mode shares many of the strategic and cooperative gameplay elements seen in Helldivers 2, and it features elements like friendly fire from above, adding an extra layer of challenge.
A trailer showcasing the gameplay of Helljumpers has already been released, building anticipation for its official launch on October 25.
Both Helldivers 2 and Halo Infinite draw inspiration from Starship Troopers, as both the Divers in Helldivers and the ODSTs in Halo share similar characteristics. This crossover, while unofficial, highlights how the two games could benefit from learning from one another.
Halo could adopt more of the dynamic co-op gameplay that makes Helldivers so engaging, while Helldivers 2 could use some of the weapon variety and sandbox gameplay that defines Halo. This fan project blends elements of both, offering a fresh perspective on how these two styles could be harmonized.
The team behind Helljumpers, known as The Forge Falcons, has already built a reputation for creating impressive custom modes in Halo Infinite, including a Zombies mode and a large-scale battle royale.
Given their past work, there’s a lot of excitement and optimism about what Helljumpers will bring when it releases. Fans of both Helldivers and Halo alike are looking forward to this innovative addition to the Halo Infinite universe.
