Haloand Xbox go hand-in-hand, as the first entry in the long-running series helped launch the original console back in 2001. As a Microsoft exclusive series,Halohas grown into a long roster of games, spin-offs, books, and even a short-lived live-action series. Despite its exclusivity with the company, there have been rumors for a while that suggestHalogames could eventually expand to other platforms. Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, has now doubled down on statements thatHalocould very well find a second home on other platforms, which could kickstart a massive change.
In an interview with Bloomberg, Phil Spencer made it clear thatnone of Xbox’s exclusives were off limits, which would putHaloin line to potentially be ported to other platforms. While this would be a really exciting turn of events for specific gamers, like PlayStation diehards who have been waiting to get a piece of theHaloaction, this puts Xbox and Microsoft in a really strange position, as well.
Halo Losing Its Xbox Exclusivity Would Mark the End Of an Era For Both the Console and Franchise
A Wider Audience Could Also Take a Major Selling Point Away From Microsoft
Halois one of the most notable franchises in gaming. Since its 2001 launch, the various stories and chapters told within its universe have helped shaped the industry into what it is today. Master Chief’s Spartan armor is an iconic image that many are able to at least recognize, even if they have never playedHalo.TheHalofranchise has built an impressive legacy, and that is something Xbox and Microsoft should be really proud of accomplishing. The biggest upside toHalobeing ported to other platforms is obvious: more platforms mean more players. While this could do well for Microsoft’s sales numbers, this would also potentially take an important source of power away from the company.
AlthoughHalohas been a major pull for Xbox and Microsoft, Game Pass and its day one launches have now become a huge selling point for the company.
Halo Helped the Xbox Get Where It is Today
WithoutHaloas a flagship franchise, the history of the Xbox might look quite different. The introduction ofHaloand the character of Master Chief helped give the Xbox a special edge that set it apart from its biggest competitor at the time, the PlayStation 2. Through the years, PlayStation and Xbox have been embroiled in healthy competition, and one of the biggest advantages Microsoft had over Sony wasthe presence ofHalo. Of course, Xbox has also boasted other action shooters, likeGears of War, butHalohas reigned supreme as one of Microsoft’s most powerful assets.
Xbox Expanding Halo to Other Platforms Would Be a Bittersweet Moment For Gaming
A Potential End to Xbox’s Special Weapon
A world whereHalois offered on other platforms could be a great day for many who don’t play Xbox consoles, but it would definitely be the end of an era, as well. Although the company has plenty of other games under its belt,Halofeels like the heart of Microsoft. Such a drastic transition from PC and Xbox to other platform homes could be quite jarring to experience at first, and might take a big selling point away from Xbox consoles.
Last year, Microsoft acquired Activision Blizzard for an eye-watering $69 billion.
AstheHalofranchise grows, it will be fascinating to see if Phil Spencer’s claims eventually bring its flagship franchise to other platforms. On the one hand, it would be great for more gamers to experience such an iconic franchise, but on the other hand, this would be the shocking end of an exclusive legacy, and that could be emotional for many longtime fans.
Halo Infinite
WHERE TO PLAY
When all hope is lost and humanity’s fate hangs in the balance, the Master Chief is ready to confront the most ruthless foe he’s ever faced. Step inside the armor of humanity’s greatest hero to experience an epic open-world adventure and explore the massive scale of the Halo ring.With Network Campaign Co-Op and Mission Replay, you’re able to relive your favorite moments, rediscover collectibles and explore the wonders of Zeta Halo on your own or with up to three other fireteam members.Experience Halo’s celebrated multiplayer reimagined and free-to-play! With over 70 maps in matchmaking, billions of customization configurations, and countless community Forge creations to experience, Halo Infinite is the franchise’s most expansive multiplayer offering to date.Enjoy an unprecedented variety of gameplay experiences, ranging from fast-paced intense ranked modes to whimsical mayhem in Custom Games, or even co-operative coordination in the wave-based survival mode Firefight: King of the Hill. Assemble your Fireteam and conquer every mode – Halo offers endless opportunities for teamwork, strategy, and unforgettable victories.
