Xbox, Halo Celebrate 25 Years with Future Festivities Unveiled

With the 25th anniversary of both the original Halo game and the Xbox console fast approaching, Xbox has confirmed that significant celebrations are planned. This confirmation came during a recent interview where the company also discussed its future business strategies.

Xbox Unveils Grand Plans for Halo's 25th Anniversary

Expanding into Licensing and Merchandise

Xbox has exciting anniversary plans for Halo, the iconic military sci-fi shooter franchise developed by 343 Industries. In an interview with License Global Magazine, John Friend, Xbox's head of consumer products, highlighted the company's achievements and its increasing focus on licensing and merchandising. This strategy mirrors the successful cross-media expansion seen with franchises like Fallout and Minecraft, which have been adapted into TV shows and movies.

Friend revealed that Xbox is actively developing plans for the 25th anniversaries of both Halo and the Xbox console. He emphasized the rich history and dedicated community surrounding these franchises, stating that "We have these massive, fantastic franchises... We’re building plans for the 25th anniversary of ‘Halo’ and Xbox—we have such a rich heritage and history, and these communities have been active for so long, you have to celebrate that." Specific details about these plans, however, remain undisclosed.

Halo's 25th anniversary falls in 2026. The franchise has reportedly generated over $6 billion in revenue since the launch of Halo: Combat Evolved in 2001. Beyond its financial success, the original Halo game holds immense importance to Xbox as its launch title on November 15, 2001. Over the years, Halo's influence has extended to novels, comics, films, and most recently, the critically acclaimed Paramount+ TV series.

Friend stressed the importance of a thoughtful approach to franchise celebrations, stating, "it’s important to assess a franchise and a community... and make sure that you’re designing a program that’s additive to fans and building fandom."

Halo 3 ODST Marks its 15th Anniversary

Halo 3 ODST is currently available on PC as part of Halo: The Master Chief Collection, which also includes Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, Halo 2: Anniversary, Halo 3, Halo: Reach, and Halo 4.