Halo: Campaign Evolved is set to reinvigorate the gaming landscape with a complete remake of the iconic Halo: Combat Evolved campaign, slated for release in 2026. This eagerly anticipated title will be available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, Steam, and PlayStation 5, while also supporting Xbox Cloud Gaming and Xbox Play Anywhere. Moreover, it will be accessible from day one for Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers.
The remake promises to elevate the original experience with several enhancements, including stunning 4K visuals, acclaimed weapons and vehicles from the Halo universe, and exciting new narrative content. Executive Producer Damon Conn expressed the intent behind this ambitious project: to provide a perfect entry point for newcomers while honoring the cherished memories of longtime fans.
Halo: Combat Evolved has long been revered as a landmark in gaming history, having shaped the first-person shooter genre since its debut. The team at Halo Studios is dedicated to capturing its essence while modernizing elements that align with today’s gaming standards. The gameplay will be enriched with remastered animations, updated soundtracks, and new voice recordings, all aimed at preserving the immersive feel that players remember.
One of the standout features of Halo: Campaign Evolved is its commitment to cooperative play. It will support the classic two-player local split-screen mode and for the first time, allow up to four players in online co-op across Xbox, PC, and PlayStation 5. This expansion reflects the enduring legacy of collaboration that has been integral to the Halo experience.
Recognizing the importance of maintaining the “Halo spirit,” the development team has reshaped existing missions, not merely for reams of innovation, but to ensure long-time fans still feel the emotional weight and nostalgia. Max Szlagor, the Creative Director, emphasized this careful approach, particularly in enhancing pivotal sections like “The Library,” to meet the desires of both past and present gamers.
Players can look forward to an arsenal of newly added weapons—nine iconic ones from across the series—including the Energy Sword and the Battle Rifle. This will provide fresh tactical options previously unavailable in the original campaign. Furthermore, the remake will feature three new prequel missions that expand on the lore, alongside the ability to hijack vehicles and pilot the Covenant Wraith tank.
Halo Studios is utilizing the cutting-edge Unreal Engine 5 to breathe new life into the classic gameplay, enhancing visuals while retaining the fundamental mechanics that define Halo. By combining 25 years of community feedback with advanced technology, the development team aims to create a nostalgic yet modern experience.
As anticipation builds ahead of its debut at the Halo World Championships, Cathy’s dedication to community engagement remains evident. The player-focused approach informs essential decisions that shape the game’s development, ensuring that Halo: Campaign Evolved stands as a worthy successor to its inspired lineage.
Ultimately, Halo: Campaign Evolved aims to connect generations of players by recreating the magic of the original while infusing it with enhancements that resonate with today’s audiences. The team is enthusiastic about welcoming a new wave of fans into the Halo universe, reinforcing that at its core, Halo is about connection and shared experiences.