Halo Goes Unreal, Promising Enhanced Gaming Experience

Microsoft has confirmed the development of multiple new Halo games, coinciding with the rebranding of 343 Industries to "Halo Studios."

Xbox Game Studios' 343 Industries Rebrands as Halo Studios

Halo Studios Embarks on a New Era of Halo Game Development

"Halo's history has two distinct chapters: Bungie and 343 Industries," stated Studio Head Pierre Hintze. "Now, we're responding to player demand for more. We're not just improving development efficiency; we're reinventing how we create Halo games. This marks the beginning of a new chapter."

The studio will utilize Epic Games' Unreal Engine 5 (UE5) for future Halo installments. UE5's reputation for high-quality graphics and realistic physics is well-established. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney tweeted, "The first Halo redefined console gaming in 2001, and Halo has consistently pushed boundaries. Epic is honored Halo Studios chose our tools for their future projects!"

Halo's leadership team outlined the franchise's new direction. Hintze explained, "We previously overemphasized creating conditions for Halo Infinite's success." The shift to UE5, he added, allows for higher-quality games. "Our sole focus is creating the best possible Halo games," he emphasized.

Halo franchise COO Elizabeth Van Wyck added, "Success hinges on building games players want. This new structure empowers game developers to make key decisions. We're actively seeking broader player feedback to guide our direction. Ultimately, player evaluation is paramount."

Studio Art Director Chris Matthew highlighted UE5's advantages in meeting fan expectations. "Some Slipspace components are nearly 25 years old," he noted. "While 343 continuously developed it, Unreal offers features unavailable in Slipspace, features that would require immense time and resources to replicate."

UE5 also streamlines updates and new content delivery. Van Wyck stated, "It's not just about development time, but also update speed and responsiveness to player desires." Halo Studios has begun recruitment for these new projects.