TheHalofranchise has come a long way since its beginnings in 2001. With over 20 years of games to book spin-offs and even a live action television adaptation,Halois one of the most notable franchises in gaming. Even if one isn’t familiar withHalo’s lore, the iconic design of long-running protagonist Master Chief has become a recognizable figure in pop culture.
Since the start of the series,Halohas put a bright spotlight on Master Chief. Despite this, it seems as though the franchise’s focus on the highly decorated Spartan soldier is beginning to grow stale,leavingHaloat a crossroads. AfterHalo Infinite, current developer 343 Industries may benefit by going back to the drawing board and rebooting the series. If this is the case, a new take onHalocould come out stronger if the franchise was handled as more of an anthology than focusing on one specific character.
Halo’s Future Should Adopt an Anthology Approach
Halo: Reach and ODST Remain Standout Chapters
The franchise’s original developer, Bungie, said farewell to the series with one ofHalo’s strongest chapters;Halo: Reach, withODSTas its predecessor.ODSTandReachremain two unique points in theHalofranchise. SinceHalo: Reachis a direct prequel toHalo: Combat EvolvedandHalo 3: ODSTis a side story, both were bold leaps that pushed Master Chief’s story to the side.
InReach, players were put in the shoes ofthe Spartan known as Noble Six, who was part of an elite squad known as Noble Team, whileODSTstars Rookie. Although the stories of Noble Six and Rookie end in tragedy, they are compelling explorations of life as UNSC soldiers. Both games are great examples of how far narratives inHalocan be taken when stepping out of the shadow Master Chief casts. Master Chief is one of the most iconic faces in 21st-century gaming, but it feels like his story has ultimately been told.The lore ofHalois rich and filled with opportunities that could better be explored through the eyes of new protagonists.
Halo: Reachwas a series high that has yet to truly be replicated, but using the chapter as a source for inspiration could really help make the franchise compelling again.Halois in need of new life, and leaving Master Chief behind may be the necessary route. Spartan soldiers and ODST are fascinating concepts, and exploring the different minds and personalities that reside behind each mask opens the series up to a world of possibility.
Recapturing the Highs of Halo: Reach and ODST
Halohas had its fair share of meaningful moments, butHalo: Reachreally outdid the rest of the series with its emotional beats. The prequel showcases the sacrifices that often need to be made in war, and it pulls it off beautifully.PastHalogames have featured many great concepts, butHalo: Reachstands at the top when it comes to storytelling.ODSTshines by putting a non-Spartan in the starring role, which is a refreshing change of pace. Master Chief has remained a loyal soldier for the UNSC, but seeing protagonists with diverse points of view that may not be as dedicated to the cause of the Spartans would be a fascinating direction for the franchise to take.
At the moment, it’s unknown which avenue the nextHalowill explore with its protagonist, but retiring Master Chief, or at least giving him a break, could be ideal.BetweenReachandODST, Bungie was able to highlight conflict with the Covenant using a fresh set of eyes, and 343 Industries needs to take that into account for the future.
Halo Infinite
WHERE TO PLAY
When all hope is lost and humanity’s fate hangs in the balance, the Master Chief is ready to confront the most ruthless foe he’s ever faced. Step inside the armor of humanity’s greatest hero to experience an epic open-world adventure and explore the massive scale of the Halo ring.With Network Campaign Co-Op and Mission Replay, you can relive your favorite moments, rediscover collectibles and explore the wonders of Zeta Halo on your own or with up to three other fireteam members.Experience Halo’s celebrated multiplayer reimagined and free-to-play! With over 70 maps in matchmaking, billions of customization configurations, and countless community Forge creations to experience, Halo Infinite is the franchise’s most expansive multiplayer offering to date.Enjoy an unprecedented variety of gameplay experiences, ranging from fast-paced intense ranked modes to whimsical mayhem in Custom Games, or even co-operative coordination in the wave-based survival mode Firefight: King of the Hill. Assemble your Fireteam and conquer every mode – Halo offers endless opportunities for teamwork, strategy, and unforgettable victories.
