Halo: CE Bonus Mission Guide: How to Find All 3 Skulls in 'Boarding Action'
Master the bonus mission in Halo: Combat Evolved! Learn exactly where to find all 3 hidden Skulls in the Boarding Action mission and discover their unique effects.
Introduction to Boarding Action
For veteran players and newcomers alike, the 'Boarding Action' bonus mission in Halo: Combat Evolved remains one of the most intense experiences in the franchise. This mission tasks the Master Chief with infiltrating a Covenant ship to disrupt their operations. While the combat is the primary focus, dedicated collectors know that this level contains three elusive Skulls. These collectibles aren't just trophies; they unlock unique gameplay modifiers that can either aid your progress or turn the game into a chaotic nightmare.
Why Collect Skulls in Halo: CE?
Collecting Skulls is a rite of passage for any Halo enthusiast. Each Skull provides a specific effect that alters the game's physics, enemy behavior, or visual style. Whether you are looking to challenge yourself with harder combat or simply want to see the world through a distorted lens, gathering all the Skulls in the bonus mission is essential for a 100% completion run.
Detailed Guide: Finding the 3 Skulls in Boarding Action
The 'Boarding Action' level is a claustrophobic environment filled with Covenant forces. Finding the Skulls requires a mix of exploration and tactical awareness. Here is exactly where to find each one:
1. The First Skull: Tactical Positioning
The first Skull is typically located in the early-to-mid section of the ship. As you navigate the corridors, keep a close eye on the recessed alcoves and corners of the hallways. This Skull is often tucked away behind crates or in small side-rooms that players tend to rush past during the heat of battle. Ensure you clear the area of Grunts and Elites before venturing off the main path to avoid being ambushed.
2. The Second Skull: The Hidden Corner
The second collectible is hidden in a more obscured location, often requiring the player to look upward or check behind structural pillars. In the larger combat arenas where the Covenant regroup, check the perimeter of the room. Many players miss this one because they are too focused on the plasma fire coming from the center of the room. Slow down and scan the environment for the distinct glow of the Skull.
3. The Third Skull: The Final Stretch
The final Skull is located toward the end of the mission, near the objective area. As you approach the climax of the boarding action, there is a specific corridor or ventilation area that serves as a detour. Be sure to explore the edges of the map before triggering the final sequence of the level, as once the mission concludes, you will not be able to return to retrieve any missed collectibles.
Understanding the Skull Effects
Once you have collected these Skulls, you can activate them in the menu to change your gameplay experience. While the specific effects can vary based on the version of the game (Original vs. Anniversary), typical Skull effects in Halo include:
- Irony: Swaps the weapons of the player and the enemies.
- Hindsight: Forces the player to play the game from a third-person perspective (in versions where first-person is standard).
Alien Superpowers: Grants the player enhanced jumping abilities, making platforming a breeze.
Pro Tips for Completion
To ensure you find all three Skulls in a single run, we recommend the following strategies:
- Use a Flashlight: The interior of the Covenant ship can be dark. Use your lighting to spot the subtle shimmer of the Skulls.
- Clear the Room First: Don't go hunting for collectibles while under fire. Eliminate all Covenant forces in the immediate area first to avoid sudden deaths.
- Explore Every Nook: If a hallway looks too straight or a room feels too empty, there is a high probability that a secret or a Skull is hidden just out of sight.
