There may be people out there milking franchises and whatnot, but Microsoft do not count themselves among them, no sir. In a recent interview, Microsoft Game Studios head Phil Spencer flat out denied that the upcoming Halo Combat Evolved Anniversary Edition might be anything other than an homage to the FPS that put the Xbox on the map.
The Legacy of Halo: Combat Evolved
“People shouldn’t look at Anniversary as part of an annualised franchise,” according to Spencer. “I love the fact we’re doing the Anniversary edition because I loved Halo 1. We just looked at it and thought it needed to be refreshed. It wasn’t part of us trying to get into an annualised rhythm with the franchise.” That was just before confirming that a similar Halo 2 remake might not be completely out of the realm of possibility.
The original Halo: Combat Evolved, released in 2001, was a groundbreaking title that revolutionized the first-person shooter genre on consoles. It introduced players to the rich lore of the Halo universe, featuring the iconic Master Chief and his AI companion, Cortana. The game’s innovative gameplay mechanics, such as the regenerating shield system and the two-weapon limit, set new standards for the genre. Its success was instrumental in establishing the Xbox as a major player in the gaming industry.
Passion Over Profit
“We had discussions about ‘will people look at this as us milking it’, but we figured with Achievements, Xbox Live, and ‘up-res-ing’ the game it was a project out of passion not a project out of business,” he went on. We think you’ll agree nothing says passion like ‘up-res-ing’.
The decision to remaster Halo: Combat Evolved was driven by a desire to honor the original game and its fans. The Anniversary Edition features enhanced graphics, improved audio, and support for modern multiplayer through Xbox Live. These updates aim to provide both new players and long-time fans with a fresh yet familiar experience. The inclusion of Achievements adds an extra layer of engagement, encouraging players to explore every aspect of the game.
Moreover, the Anniversary Edition serves as a bridge between the old and new generations of gamers. It allows those who missed the original release to experience the game that started it all, while also giving veteran players a chance to relive their favorite moments with modern enhancements. This approach ensures that the legacy of Halo: Combat Evolved continues to thrive in the ever-evolving gaming landscape.
The possibility of a Halo 2 remake further underscores Microsoft’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the franchise’s history. Halo 2, released in 2004, was another landmark title that expanded the series’ lore and introduced online multiplayer to the Xbox platform. A remastered version of Halo 2 would not only delight fans but also attract new players to the franchise.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s approach to the Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary Edition is a testament to their dedication to the franchise and its community. By focusing on passion rather than profit, they have created a product that honors the original game while making it accessible to a new generation of players. As the Halo series continues to evolve, it is clear that its legacy will endure for years to come.
Source IGN
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
