Halo: The Strongest Spartans, Ranked

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Key Takeaways

  • Johnson was an underdog; learned in Spartan-I program, tenacious in battle, befriended Chief.
  • Palmer is Spartan-IV leader; excels in combat, an assassin, favored handguns, trains recruits.
  • Jorge’s an endearing Spartan, giant with heart, calculated sacrifice, duty-driven, brave.

As a historian delving into the annals of the Halo universe, I must say that each of these Spartans has left an indelible mark on the fate of humanity.

The Halo franchise, with its vast scope, is undeniably among the most prominent not just in gaming but also in science-fiction. Following the release of Halo: Combat Evolved, the interest grew so significantly that numerous books and supplementary materials were produced to elaborate on the intriguing and distinctive universe it presents.

A portion of this development included detailing the UNSC’s Spartan program and its soldiers. The Spartan lineage comprises four distinct groups, with the Spartan-IIs being known for their exceptional strength. However, it’s important to note that there are numerous capable Spartan-IIIs and IVs who have matched or surpassed the achievements of Master Chief.

Although some Spartans from the roster may no longer be part of the United Nations Space Command or have perished during combat, they are deserving of recognition for their courageous acts, as they significantly contributed to shaping numerous incidents in the expansive and intricate Halo universe.

22 Gabriel Thorne

First Appearance – Halo 4: Spartan Ops

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 6’10”
  • Date of Birth: July 5, 2534
  • Date of Death: N/A

Hailing from New Phoenix on Earth, Gabriel Thorne spent his formative years as an orphan, losing his parents at a tender age due to unfortunate circumstances. In the epic saga of Halo 4, Thorne stands out among the Spartans for his remarkable bravery and resilience. During the Battle of Criterion, he single-handedly turned the tide of battle and saved not only himself but also his entire platoon.

He too endured The Reach Incident, an unfortunate time in UNSC history marked by heavy casualties among both Spartans and ordinary troops. Despite not being as powerful as Master Chief, Gabriel Thorne is someone to be taken seriously.

21 Michael (Mickey) Crespo

First Appearance – Halo ODST

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 6′ 9″
  • Date of Birth: October 20, 2530
  • Date of Death: N/A

Mickey Crespo, born in Crisium City in the year 2530, debuted in the Halo universe during the happenings of the game “Halo 3: ODST”. According to various reports, his parents were rebels who lost their lives while attempting to blow up a government building. This left him an orphan from a young age. Once he turned 18, he enlisted in the UNSC as a prerequisite for being freed from foster care.

Mickey Crespo, though not a longtime figure in the Halo universe, presents an intriguing persona. Over time, he departs from the UNSC and turns into a firm critic of the organization, mirroring the actions of his forebears.

20 Sergeant Major Avery Johnson

First Appearance – Halo: The Fall of Reach

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 6’1″
  • Date of Birth: Circa 2474
  • Date of Death: December 11, 2552

Less experienced viewers might not be aware that Sgt. Johnson was initially part of the Spartan force, originally referred to as the ORION project and later labeled the SPARTAN-I program. There were many resemblances between this early version and the well-known SPARTAN-II program. Enhanced abilities made Sgt. Johnson particularly valuable in the UNSC’s struggle against the Covenant.

Although this program wasn’t as sophisticated as its subsequent iterations, it boasted enhanced combat skills and slower aging. Despite being shorter than his fellow Spartans, Johnson was at least 78 years old when he passed away. His unwavering determination and ‘gung-ho’ spirit were reminiscent of the Spartans, earning him the respect of Master Chief.

19 Spartan Commander Sarah Palmer

First Appearance: Halo 4

  • Gender: Female
  • Height: 6’9″
  • Date of Birth: April 13, 2527
  • Date of Death: N/A

She is recognized for her exceptional leadership skills. During the Human-Covenant War, she served as a UNSC Marine Corps Shock Trooper, demonstrating remarkable resilience that led to her selection for the SPARTAN-IV program. Later, Palmer was appointed Commanding Officer of the UNSC Infinite, overseeing a 300-strong Spartan force.

She preferred a set of M6H magnum sidearms and excelled in close-quarter combat, often taking on roles that included the assassination of Dr Catherine Halsey. Notable for her actions during the Requiem operation, Palmer emerged as an ideal prospect for the SPARTAN-IV program and eventually became one of the most accomplished Spartans.

18 Joshua-029

First Appearance – Halo: The Fall of Reach

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 7’0″
  • Date of Birth: Circa 2511
  • Date of Death: August 30, 2552

At six years old, Joshua was enrolled in the Spartan-II program and participated in numerous battles and skirmishes throughout his life, eventually meeting his end. One of his most remarkable achievements was commanding Red Team during the Battle of Sigma Octanus IV, where he accomplished his mission without a single casualty.

Beyond his exceptional marksmanship with a sniper rifle, Joshua was also known for his proficiency in electronics, a skill that proved useful on numerous occasions. Brave to the core, he frequently risked his own life to shield his friends and fellow Spartans. Despite being marked as Missing in Action, it’s widely believed among many that he met his end during the incidents on Reach.

17 Tom-B292

First Appearance – Halo: Ghosts of Onyx

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: Unknown
  • Date of Birth: Circa 2533
  • Date of Death: N/A

Tom enrolled in the Spartan-III program following the tragic loss of his parents during a Covenant assault on their home planet. It may be his burning desire for revenge that makes him such an outstanding soldier. He’s taken part in numerous missions and was once a member of Blue Team, before moving on to teach at the freshly established Spartan Operations department.

Despite maintaining a deep-seated grudge against the Covenant, his bond with Lucy-B091 has enabled him to slowly release some of his resentment over time. This transformation not only enhanced his combat skills but also molded him into an improved leader and inspiration for the novice soldiers he now instructs.

16 Lucy-B091

First Appearance – Halo: Ghosts of Onyx

  • Gender: Female
  • Height: 5’3″ (Age 12)
  • Date of Birth: January 28, 2533
  • Date of Death: N/A

With Tom-B292, Lucy-B091 is undoubtedly a formidable presence and one of the most powerful Spartans in the Halo universe. Since Operation: TORPEDO left her speechless, they’ve been a formidable team, participating in almost every mission together. Over time, they’ve managed to eliminate many adversaries.

Similar to Tom, she is a member of the Blue Team and employs her combat skills to instruct Spartan-IV trainees. Her remarkable resilience in tough scenarios positions her among the most robust Spartan-IIIs within the entire program, making her an indispensable asset to our cause.

15 William-043

First Appearance – Halo: First Strike

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 7’0″
  • Date of Birth: Unknown
  • Date of Death: November 3, 2552

Among all Spartan-IIs, Will stood out as one of the strongest, impressing the UNSC with his mighty strength. In a remarkable show of power, he single-handedly defeated a Hunter in close combat, a feat that only Master Chief and another Spartan had achieved before him. Moreover, his expertise with a rocket launcher was unmatched, as he was capable of destroying a moving Banshee from an astonishing distance.

Through resilience and determination, Will managed to survive the Fall of Reach. However, during a fierce skirmish with the Covenant on Onyx, he chose to sacrifice himself so that his team could make their escape. In doing so, he demonstrated an impressive final stand, receiving a direct blast from a hunter’s assault cannon while simultaneously engaging another in hand-to-hand combat.

14 Edward Buck

First Appearance – Halo 3: ODST Pre-mission Evaluation

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 6’2″
  • Date of Birth: August 22, 2510
  • Date of Death: N/A

Describing Buck merely as a seasoned soldier would be selling him short. He began his military career as an ordinary UNSC marine, but his tenure extended to fighting as an Operational Detachment Delivery System (ODST) during the Human-Covenant War. His journey eventually led him to join the Spartan-IV program. Buck’s knack for leading effectively and remaining composed in high-pressure situations is likely the reason he has endured as long as he has.

Although Buck may not match the strength of some Spartan-II counterparts, it’s challenging to overlook his abilities and achievements that led him to become a Spartan. Few Spartan-IVs can boast the combat experience that Buck possesses, and this is clearly evident in his battlefield performances.

13 Spartan Jameson Locke

First Appearance – Halo: Nightfall

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 6’10”
  • Date of Birth: March 15, 2529
  • Date of Death: N/A

Prior to joining the SPARTAN-IV program, Jameson Locke served in the ONI division of the United Nations Space Command, attaining the rank of lieutenant commander. His role was that of an Acquisitions Specialist, where he was responsible for procuring critical artifacts and eliminating high-profile targets marked as valuable.

This assignment of locating John-117, the top Spartan within the UNSC, demonstrates the exceptional abilities he possesses, as even an almost unattainable task like this has been entrusted to him. What sets Locke apart as a skilled soldier is his measured and strategic response in combat, avoiding reckless actions, instead carefully planning his moves with precision and mastery.

12 Catherine-B320

First Appearance: Remembering Reach – Deliver Hope

  • Gender: Female
  • Height: 6’9″
  • Date of Birth: January 30, 2530
  • Date of Death: August 23, 2552

Catherine-B320 was commonly known as Kat, a significant figure within NOBLE Team. She operated under the alias Noble Two and tragically passed away at just 22 years old, despite being one of the most powerful Spartans in the Halo universe.

Her prosthetic arm served as an inspiring symbol for a community often underrepresented positively in mainstream media, namely individuals with health issues or disabilities. The sudden death of character Kat in the game Halo Reach was quite surprising; it occurred unexpectedly during Noble Team’s escape toward New Alexandria’s bunker.

11 Emile-A239

First Appearance: Remembering Reach – Deliver Hope

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 6’10”
  • Date of Birth: March 11, 2523
  • Date of Death: August 30, 2552

Without a doubt, among all Spartans, Emile was equipped with one of the most impressive armor types. As a member of Noble Team, he valiantly fought until his demise, shielding Cortana from the Covenant during the catastrophic events on Reach.

In a military career that advanced to the rank of Warrant Officer, Emile exhibited prowess in close-quarters fighting and was frequently spotted brandishing an M45 Tactical Shotgun. His proficiency extended to his kurki knife as well. Known for his audacious and aggressive nature, this SPARTAN-III served as a double-edged sword in combat. The saying “live by the sword, die by the sword” was aptly personified by him, as he fearlessly charged into battle against two Elite Zealots to shield Noble Six, ultimately losing his life at the hands of an Energy Sword, but inflicting damage on his assailants in the process.

10 Jorge-052

First Appearance: Remembering Reach – Deliver Hope

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 7’4″
  • Date of Birth: March 5, 2511
  • Date of Death: August 14, 2552

A team of heroes typically requires a towering figure who’s both lovable and captivating, despite being an exceptionally deadly Spartan. That role is filled by Jorge-052, fondly called “George”. Often referred to as Noble Five, this giant among men managed to embody a tender heart and strong sense of duty that surpassed his imposing physical presence.

Jorge-052 demonstrated extraordinary bravery not by being fearless, but by acting boldly when gripped by immense fear – a testament to the truth that courage lies in pressing forward even when confronted with overpowering dread.

9 Jun-A266

First Appearance: Remembering Reach – Deliver Hope

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 6’10”
  • Date of Birth: February 28, 2524
  • Date of Death: N/A

In this scenario, the lone remaining member of Noble Team, named Jun, was assigned the duty of safely guiding Dr. Halsey away from the devastated planet Reach. As a skilled SPARTAN-III soldier, Jun was particularly adept with his Sniper Rifle System 99 Anti-Matériel, using it to provide cover for his teammates from afar.

Following the Fall of Reach, I found myself stepping into a new role – training the next generation of SPARTAN-IVs on a clandestine space station. As their commander, I was tasked with honing their skills and readying them for battle. Among the candidates I carefully selected, Sarah Palmer stood out as an exceptional prospect.

8 Jerome-092

First Appearance: Halo Wars

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 7’2″
  • Date of Birth: May 8, 2511
  • Date of Death: N/A

Jerome-092, without a doubt, stands among the most powerful Spartan-II recruits in the entire program. He’s one of only four potential leaders for the Spartan-II team, which already sets him apart as a significant figure. However, his significance doesn’t end there; he played crucial roles in both the Battle of Arcadia and Battle of Shield 0459, all while wearing outdated armor.

If Jerome hadn’t spent so much time in cryosleep, he might have been recognized among the top-tier Spartan-IIs for his strength. However, currently, he falls slightly behind the elite. In some respects, Jerome possesses abilities similar to Master Chief, but not quite to the same degree.

7 Carter-A259

First Appearance: Remembering Reach – Birth Of A Spartan

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 6’10”
  • Date of Birth: August 27, 2520
  • Date of Death: August 30, 2552

In the hearts of Halo enthusiasts, Halo Reach stands out as it delivers an unparalleled in-universe adventure without Master Chief. This game narrates the stories of NOBLE Team, a team of highly effective Spartans, led by Carter, specifically identified as Carter-A259.

Fans soon took a liking to the character, partly because Carter’s call sign was Noble One. He played an essential part in transporting the package to the Pillar of Autumn, and his heroic crash with a Pelican allowed Noble Six, Emile, and others to bypass a Scarab and accomplish the mission. This was done at great personal cost as he sacrificed himself in the process.

6 Kelly-087

First Appearance – Halo: The Fall of Reach

  • Gender: Female
  • Height: 6’11”
  • Date of Birth: September 21, 2510
  • Date of Death: N/A

When Halo enthusiasts envision Blue Team, their initial mental image often includes either Master Chief or Kelly-087. As one of the rare surviving Spartan-IIs during the events of Halo 5: Guardians, it’s understandable why she would be top of mind. While some might argue that luck played a role in her survival, her combat skills are undeniably impressive, allowing her to protect not only herself but also her teammates as well.

Known for her remarkable speed and instincts in battle, Kelly outshines every Spartan, even without wearing her MJOLNIR armor. With a history spanning numerous combat missions tracing back to Reach, Kelly is undeniably one of the most capable and powerful Spartans ever associated with Blue Team.

5 Kurt-051

First Appearance – Halo: Ghosts of Onyx

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 4’8″ (Age 6)
  • Date of Birth: October 19, 2511
  • Date of Death: November 3, 2552

Among a select group of Spartans, Kurt-051 stands out as one who has successfully outwitted Master Chief. Recognized as an exceptional tactician among all the Spartan-IIs, Kurt possesses an uncanny knack for detecting hidden traps and ambushes that typically elude detection. His strategic prowess and keen sense of danger have elevated him to the rank of Officer and ultimately, Lieutenant Commander.

During Kurt’s leadership of the Spartan-III program, these traits were evident as well. Tragically, he met his demise during the Onyx conflict. However, his influence on the Spartan-IIs he fought alongside and the Spartan-IIIs he trained is immeasurable. If Kurt hadn’t been part of the UNSC, it would have been a different organization altogether.

4 Frederic-104

First Appearance – Halo: The Fall of Reach

  • Gender: Male
  • Height: 7’1″
  • Date of Birth: April 3, 2511
  • Date of Death: N/A

While Frederic-104 may not excel in strategy or marksmanship compared to other Spartan-IIs, or even Master Chief, he stands out as a superior Spartan due to his versatile skillset – a talent set that many other Spartans seem to lack.

Master Chief may benefit from good fortune occasionally, but he pales in comparison to many Spartans generally. Contrarily, Frederic excels at almost everything – commanding others or combating Covenant forces with just a combat knife. When a Spartan is proficient in numerous areas, they tend to surpass their peers in multiple aspects. Master Chief himself acknowledged that if not for his luck, Frederic would surpass him in rank.

3 Spartan-B312 (Noble 6)

First Appearance – Halo: Reach

  • Gender: Player Determined
  • Height: 6’9″
  • Date of Birth: Unknown
  • Date of Death: August 30, 2552

As a formidable Spartan-III, I stand out among my brethren, often defying the usual Spartan-IIs’ reputation. Known as Noble Six, I am unquestionably the deadliest of all Spartan-IIIs to have ever graced the universe of Halo. Uniquely, I am the sole Spartan-III to have been marked as hyper-lethal, a distinction previously held by only one Spartan-II. However, 343 Industries later revised this detail in the lore.

Regardless of any subsequent revisions, Noble Six is undeniably formidable. He was handpicked by Cortana during her transport to the Pillar of Autumn, fought alongside NOBLE Team in evacuating Reach, and single-handedly eliminated hundreds of Covenant forces before meeting his end during the last moments of the Reach invasion. If Noble Six possessed the genetic makeup of a Spartan-II, he might very well be the most powerful Spartan ever forged.

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2024-10-02 09:55