In September 2023, a leaked document from the Microsoft FTC court case hinted at the potential development of an Xbox handheld console. This rumor has since generated considerable buzz within the gaming community. Shortly after, in November 2023, Phil Spencer, the head of Xbox, confirmed that the handheld device is indeed in the works, though he cautioned fans that its release might take some time. This development could present a significant opportunity for the Halo franchise to ramp up its offerings.
The Halo franchise is in the midst of a transformative phase. In October 2023, 343 Industries declared that it would shift all future Halo projects to Unreal Engine 5, moving away from the previously used Slipspace Engine that powered Halo Infinite. Additionally, 343 Industries announced a rebranding initiative, reintroducing itself under the name “Halo Studios.”While it’s yet to be revealed how Halo Studios plans to leverage its new engine and brand identity, combining these developments with the Xbox handheld could create a substantial impact for both the iconic Sci-Fi franchise and Microsoft’s gaming ecosystem.
A One-Two Punch from Halo Could Be an Immediate Win for Xbox’s Handheld
It’s Time for a New Mainline Halo Game
The Halo franchise has maintained a reliable release schedule over the years, with new mainline entries typically arriving every 4 to 6 years. With approximately three years since the launch of Halo Infinite on Xbox consoles and PC, anticipation is building among fans for the next installment. While Halo Infinite has improved significantly as a live-service multiplayer game, many fans are eager for a fresh experience.
Given the recent rebranding efforts and the transition to Unreal Engine 5, it appears that Halo Studios is poised for a fresh start. A new, mainline Halo game could aptly demonstrate the advantages of this new engine, while simultaneously offering a perfect opportunity to showcase the capabilities of the upcoming Xbox handheld. Leveraging the franchise’s popularity could highlight the technical strengths of the new portable console.
A Halo Wars Sequel Could Target a Different Audience
Despite the expansive nature of the Halo universe, the franchise has surprisingly few spinoffs. Among these, the most notable is the Halo Wars series, which began in 2009 and saw a sequel released in 2017. This real-time strategy game invites players to build and command armies from iconic factions such as the UNSC, Covenant, and Banished.
With seven years since the launch of Halo Wars 2 and limited additional content released thereafter, there is a strong demand for a full-fledged sequel. A new Halo Wars installment may not attract as much attention as a core entry in the series, but it would be an exciting addition to the launch lineup of the Xbox handheld. A sequel could diversify the console’s game library, highlighting its potential in accommodating various gameplay styles and control schemes.