Covenant Enemies

Learn about Grunts, Jackals, Elites, and Hunters in Halo: The Master Chief Collection. Discover their weaknesses and best tactics for each.

Grunts:

Grunts are the weakest Covenant enemies, often found in groups. Their threat level varies by color: Orange Grunts are the most cowardly, Red Grunts fight more often, and Silver Grunts are fearless. They wield Plasma Pistols (which they do not charge) and Needlers (firing in pieces). Silver Grunts may also carry dangerous Fuel Rod Guns. Pistols and Assault Rifles are effective for quickly defeating Grunts.

Jackals:

Jackals are scouting enemies common in early levels, featuring a shield for protection and wielding Plasma Pistols. They can charge their Plasma Pistols to drain your shields completely. Jackals are vulnerable to melee attacks, which deal significant damage even through their shields. Covenant weapons like the Plasma Pistol or Plasma Rifle can temporarily melt their shields after several hits, leaving them vulnerable. A fully charged Plasma Pistol shot can also remove their shield in one hit. Note that Needler projectiles bounce off their shields.

Elites:

Elites are formidable enemies with shields that must often be depleted before they can be defeated, especially on higher difficulties. They tend to retreat and seek cover (press the cover button to crouch behind walls or objects) when attacked. Elites carry Plasma Rifles or Needlers, firing them rapidly. If you are caught in the open, your health can be drained very quickly. A charged Plasma Pistol bolt instantly removes an Elite's shields, leaving them vulnerable. Rapid fire from a Plasma Pistol can also quickly deplete their shields. Once shields are down, quickly eliminate them before they can recharge. A Pistol can instantly kill a shieldless Elite with a headshot (a shot that lands on the enemy's head, usually an instant kill). Melee attacks are also effective, especially when an Elite is low on health and charges at you. The Shotgun, found later in the game, can drop an Elite's shields or kill them with one or two close-range hits. Sniper Rifle shots (two to three hits) are also effective. Elite variations include Blue (basic), Red/Purple (stronger shields), Gold (very high shields, requiring a Shotgun or charged Plasma Pistol), and Black (Spec-Ops Elites, found at the end of the game, dangerous with high shields, and capable of throwing grenades accurately). Some Elites wield one-hit kill Energy Swords and will charge at you; backpedal and be aware of your surroundings. Invisible Elites attack without shields and are easier to kill once spotted; an Assault Rifle is recommended for its rapid fire to hit them as they move.

Hunters:

Hunters are the largest Covenant enemies, usually encountered in pairs. They possess Fuel Rod Guns that deal significant damage, including splash damage. They can also perform a melee attack if you get too close; back away as they raise their weapon and move out of the way to avoid it.