Microsoft and Halo Studios have unveiled an ambitious project: Halo: Campaign Evolved, a remake of the iconic 2001 launch title, Halo: Combat Evolved, built on the cutting-edge Unreal Engine 5. Having experienced a brief demo, I’m eager to share my insights, but let’s delve into what we know—and what remains a mystery—about this eagerly anticipated release scheduled for 2026, marking the first new Halo installment since Halo Infinite in 2021.
Understanding the Remake
When I inquired directly whether this project is a remake or a remaster, Executive Producer Damon Conn clarified, “It’s a modernized remake – a rebuilt version of the classic story that started it all.” This distinction sets the stage for a fresh take on a beloved narrative.
Cross-Platform Availability
In an intriguing twist, Halo: Campaign Evolved will be available not only on Xbox Series X|S and PC but also on PlayStation 5. This cross-platform release is a significant step, with confirmation from Halo Studios that the PS5 version will launch simultaneously with its Xbox and PC counterparts. It raises questions about the evolving landscape of gaming exclusivity.
Release Timeline
While Halo Studios has only committed to a vague “2026” release window, speculation suggests a launch around the 25th anniversary of Combat Evolved on November 16, 2026. Fall 2026 appears to be a reasonable expectation for fans eagerly awaiting this revival.
Multiplayer Dynamics
As for multiplayer, the focus here is primarily on the campaign. Players can engage in co-op mode, either in split-screen for two or online for up to four players, complete with cross-play functionality. This means that friends can team up regardless of their platform—be it Xbox, PC, or PS5.
However, the campaign-centric approach leaves traditional multiplayer modes absent, which has sparked curiosity. Game Director Greg Hermann mentioned that the team is currently concentrating on the campaign experience, while Executive Producer Conn pointed out that existing titles like Halo Infinite and Halo: The Master Chief Collection already offer robust multiplayer options. This leaves PlayStation players somewhat in the lurch, though there’s potential for future expansions.
Pricing and Content
Questions about the game’s pricing remain unanswered, but a personal estimate of around seems reasonable given the absence of traditional multiplayer. However, with Microsoft’s recent price adjustments for first-party titles, it’s wise to remain cautious about expectations.
Excitingly, Campaign Evolved will introduce new single-player content, including a three-mission prequel arc featuring Master Chief and Sergeant Johnson. Details on whether these missions will be accessible from the start or require completion of the main campaign are still pending.
Gameplay Enhancements
Players can anticipate numerous gameplay updates. Vehicles are now destructible and can be hijacked, mirroring features from later Halo titles. The ability to wield any weapon used by enemies, including the coveted Energy Sword, adds a new layer of strategy. Additionally, the Warthog now accommodates four players, enhancing cooperative play. Notably, the Flood enemies will now feature dismemberment, and the level design has been thoughtfully updated to address previous challenges.
Moreover, all cinematics have been completely reimagined, showcasing new motion capture and freshly recorded dialogue from the original voice actors, Steve Downes and Jen Taylor.
Skulls and Nostalgia
One particularly exciting addition is the inclusion of Skulls—special gameplay modifiers that add unique challenges. Halo Studios promises the most Skulls ever in a Halo campaign, with “dozens” expected to be available.
From my initial experience, Halo: Campaign Evolved retains the essence of the franchise, even within the advanced Unreal Engine 5 framework. As development progresses, more details will emerge, and I encourage you to stay tuned for further updates. In the meantime, for in-depth discussions on all things Xbox, don’t miss our weekly show, Unlocked.
Ryan McCaffrey is IGN’s executive editor of previews and host of both IGN’s weekly Xbox show, Podcast Unlocked, as well as our monthly(-ish) interview show, IGN Unfiltered. He’s a North Jersey guy, so it’s “Taylor ham,” not “pork roll.” Debate it with him on Twitter at @DMC_Ryan.
