Summary
Even though the next entry in the long-runningHaloseries is still several years away, it’s not too soon for Microsoft to start thinking about how it plans to move its most famous franchise forward. While little is known about the series’ next entry, following the underwhelming response to 2021’sHalo Infinitethe pressure is on Microsoft to ensure that its flagship franchise remains competitive. To keepHalofeeling fresh almost a quarter-century on from its debut, Microsoft should be open to experimenting with the series in the same way BioWare is doing withthe nextMass Effect.
While both franchises feature spectacular sci-fi settings,HaloandMass Effectalso share a similarly tumultuous track record when it comes to their biggest releases in recent years. Though bothMass Effect: AndromedaandHalo Infinitemanaged to find some success, neither lived up to the lofty expectations of long-time franchise fans. This is why, just as BioWare followedHalo: The Master Chief Collection’s lead with the release of its remasteredMass Effect: Legendary Edition,Microsoft needs to follow in BioWare’s footsteps and try something new with the nextHalo.
The Next Halo Should Stick with What Works and Skip the Rest
With rumors indicating thatHalo 7could go multiplatformand appear on competitors’ consoles, now is the time for Microsoft to shake up the series’ familiar formula. Much like the few details that have been revealed aboutMass Effect 4indicate that BioWare is making some unexpected choices with the game, potentially even ignoringMass Effect 3’s multiple endings, Microsoft should do the same withHalo 7. Doubling down on what’s worked from the series’ past while being unafraid to eliminate what hasn’t could potentially make the nextHalothe franchise’s biggest entry yet.
By focusing on the series’ strengths rather than trying to reinvent the wheel withHalo 7, Microsoft could create a title that appeals to long-time fans and new players alike. This doesn’t mean there’s no room to innovate with the nextHalogame, though. Following the mixed reception to the graphics inHalo: Infinitethe franchise could experiment with its art style, potentially even taking a more stylized approach likeBungie’sMarathonreboot. Another bolder option would be to shake up the series’ timeline.
Reshaping Halo’s Past Could Give the Franchise a Path Forward
Releasing areboot of the originalHalowould be one way to revitalize the series, giving the franchise a fresh start free from the baggage of earlier entries. It could also choose to take the spotlight off Master Chief for the next entry, providing players with a spin-off story similar toHalo: Reach. Another choice for Microsoft—though one certain to be controversial—may be to stick withHalo’s tried-and-true gameplay but take a scalpel to its increasingly strained storyline.
Although it would likely prove to be an unpopular move with the most ardent fans of the series’ sometimes-convoluted lore, Microsoft should be willing to disregard canon if it results in a betterHalogame.
That’s not to say that the series should completely abandon the rich lore that’s been established across countless games, books, and other media, though. Just astheHaloTV seriesmanages to tell its own unique story while still following the overall narrative framework established by the games, the nextHaloshouldn’t feel obligated to slavishly stick to canon if it stands in the way of offering players innovative gameplay.
Regardless of how it does so, Microsoft needs to breathe new life intotheHalofranchiseahead of its next release. Following inMass Effect 4’s footsteps and introducing some big changes to the world ofHalowould be a great way to do this, and it could help ensure that the series has a strong future ahead for years to come.
