So, after the end of Halo 3, we're supposed to believe 4 and half years have passed. In this time, humanity has not only built the Infinity, but started the Spartan-IV program and basically become the dominant military might in the galaxy? What I mean is, humanity was on the verge of extinction. Entire colonies were destroyed, inluding Reach, the most important planet next to Earth. It was the home of the Spartan-II program and where the most "experimental" and top secret projects and equipment were. It was completely destroyed and "glassed". Then, we have Earth. Not only was a major city destroyed during a slip-space rupture, but it fell to the Covenant, and after the flood arrived, we needed help with the Sangheili (Elites) to glass and contain the parts where it were. So where did humans all of sudden get all that money to build fancy new spaceships? To restart programs that were too expensive at the height of our empire and power, and to make things better then before? Where does all the new armor come from? How do Spartan-IV's have better technology than even Spartan-II's? And how did Infinity find requiem? I mean, no one knew where the ark was, on the edge of the milky way galaxy. Humans couldn't venture so far, and that's why Chief drifted slowly. Now I know a lot of you will say it's been 4.5 years, but think about it. Spartan-III's were a poor attempt at recreating Spartan-II's. Also, how did Cortana not only upgrade Chief's firmware, but also use "nanomachines" to change his Mjolnir armor which was the pinnacle of UNSC technology? Also, how did DMR's and Armor Abilities which were experimental get off of Reach? I get it, 343 started a new story, and there are a few liberties, but humanity wasn't even close to these achievements when we had all our colonies, money, and planets, and now, soon after being on the verge of extinction, we are ten times more powerful and better off than before? Granted I haven't kept up with the new books, but I necessarily shouldn't have to. The games are the primary medium. Please discuss. I'm guessing it's just what most game companies do, how enemies seem to regroup stronger than before with each sequel etc.