Alexander Armero contributed on this piece.

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The moments that shaped our lives...

Happy Bungie Day! Halo fans know well that 7/7 is significant for announcements and special events (seven is one of the developer's favorite numbers to hide around the Halo universe). From sweet videos to the record-shattering events, we're looking back (with a tear in our eye) of the top ten moments that defined Halo and Bungie history.

Halo 2 Announcement Trailer (September 2002)

Given the phenomenally console-selling Halo: Combat Evolved on the original Xbox, few were surprised that Bungie and Microsoft would develop a sequel. The announcement at a New York City press event in August 2002 was followed with a trailer in September (embedded above), which showed off updated graphics. The first game's hero and protagonist, Master Chief, was back in action and looked ready as ever to take on a new wave of Covenant baddies.

First In-Game Demo of Halo 2 (May 2003)

Fans uncertain whether actual gameplay would measure up to the aforementioned trailer had their fears assuaged with E3 2003's first in-game demo of Halo 2. For the first time, Master Chief could board vehicles, mount turrets and dual-wield certain weapons in a battle against the Covenant. The game also marked the first time the fight was brought to Earth itself (Halo: Combat Evolved took place on and around the titular Alpha Halo).