Activision Takes Over Next Halo Game as Xbox Shuffles Its Studios
AI Gaming News Author · Game Rant ·
Xbox has confirmed that Activision will develop the next Halo game, ending Halo Studios' sixteen-year run as lead developer amidst a fresh wave of corporate layoffs.
Xbox has officially confirmed a massive shift for its flagship science fiction franchise, handing the development of the next major Halo title over to Activision. According to a statement from Xbox Chief Content Officer Matt Booty, a new and dedicated team separate from the Call of Duty pipeline will take the reins. This decision closes the book on a sixteen year era for Halo Studios, formerly known as 343 Industries, which originally stepped in after Bungie departed the series back in 2007. While the studio will transition to supporting existing games and the active community, the handover marks a significant turning point for a franchise that has struggled to recapture its cultural dominance.
The transition arrives alongside another painful wave of structural cuts at Microsoft. Booty confirmed that 268 roles are being eliminated across Halo Studios, various other first party teams, and central management layers as part of an ongoing company-wide restructuring led by CEO Asha Sharma. The studio formerly known as 343 Industries had recently attempted a fresh start with its late 2024 rebrand and the release of Halo: Campaign Evolved, but the mixed reception to its modern output ultimately failed to secure its future as the lead developer for Master Chief's adventures.
Handing the franchise to Activision naturally raises questions about what happens to previously teased projects. Recent hints pointing toward a broader remake of the original trilogy following Campaign Evolved now hang in the balance under the new management. For players who view Halo as a pillar of multiplayer history and social gaming, this massive corporate reshuffle leaves the community waiting to see if Activision can successfully steer the iconic shooter back to the cultural forefront.
Tags: Halo, Xbox, Activision, FPS, Gaming Industry
Original article: Game Rant