With the 25th anniversary of the first Halo game and the Xbox console fast approaching, Xbox has confirmed celebratory plans are underway. This was revealed in a recent interview where the company also discussed its future business strategies, particularly in licensing and merchandising.
Xbox's Celebratory Plans for Halo's 25th Anniversary
Expanding into Licensing and Merchandising
Xbox is preparing major celebrations for Halo, the popular 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 growing focus on licensing and merchandising. He noted Xbox's success in expanding franchises like Fallout and Minecraft into TV and film, a strategy they intend to apply more broadly.
Friend confirmed that Xbox is actively developing plans for the 25th anniversary of both Halo and the Xbox console, along with other milestone anniversaries for its franchises. He emphasized the importance of celebrating the rich history and engaged communities surrounding these games. While specific details remain undisclosed, the anticipation is high.
Halo's 25th anniversary falls in 2026. The franchise has generated over $6 billion since the release of Halo: Combat Evolved in 2001. Beyond its financial success, Halo: Combat Evolved holds immense historical significance as the launch title for the original Xbox console. The franchise's reach extends beyond gaming, encompassing novels, comics, and films, most recently with the critically acclaimed Paramount+ TV series.
Friend stressed the importance of a tailored approach to each franchise, ensuring that any celebratory plans enhance the fan experience and strengthen community engagement. He highlighted the vast and exciting portfolio of IPs Xbox manages, emphasizing the need for strategic planning.
Halo 3 ODST's 15th Anniversary
Separately, Halo 3 ODST recently marked its 15th anniversary with a commemorative 100-second YouTube video. The video reflects on the game's impact and legacy since its release, inviting fans to revisit their experiences as the Rookie.
Halo 3 ODST is playable 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.
