In a surprise announcement, 343 Industries has just announced that Halo: Infinite had been delayed to 2021. This new Halo game was supposed to be a launch title for Microsoft’s upcoming Xbox Series X console, and a flagship title showcasing next-gen features such as raytracing.
Considering that the first gameplay trailer Microsoft showed during its Xbox Games Showcase last month got a lukewarm reception, this delay is probably for the best. “We have made the difficult decision to shift our release to 2021 to ensure the team has the adequate time to deliver a Halo game experience that meets our vision,” 343 Industries said today.
Halo Infinite Development Update pic.twitter.com/TFZvXhRN9f
— Halo (@Halo) August 11, 2020
The Halo developer added that this delay is “the result of multiple factors that have contributed to development challenges, including the ongoing COVID-related impacts affecting us all this year.” While this is surely going to be disappointing for Halo fans, the studio promised that “The extra time will let us finish the critical work necessary to deliver the most ambitious Halo game ever at the quality we know our fans expect.”
The Xbox Series X was expected to be the first Xbox console since the original Xbox in 2001 to launch with a new Halo game. It’s definitely a missed opportunity for Microsoft, especially since Halo remains one of the company’s strongest franchise. However, after Halo 4 and Halo 5: Guardians both failed to match the quality of the original Halo games from Bungie, it’s probably best for Microsoft and 343 Industries to make sure to give Halo fans what they deserve.
Do you think Halo: Infinite being delayed to 2021 could hurt Xbox Series X sales this holiday season? Let us know in the comments below.
