To say that Halo Infinite is an important part of Xbox’s games lineup and the Halo franchise is only fitting. After all, 343 Industries and Microsoft wouldn’t have gone as far as to push it back a year from its original release date, which would have otherwise coincided with the Xbox Series X launch, if it didn’t care that it was good. However, a recent statement from Xbox head, Phil Spencer, seems to downplay the significance of Halo Infinite in the grand scheme of things.
Halo will be here 10 years from now
In a recent interview with IGN, Phil Spencer said that “Halo will be here 10 years from now.” before adding that it is not the “lynchpin on whether it [the Halo franchise] survives that long.” However, before you say that this is just Phil being overconfident, he actually believes that its because of the fanbase that Halo has built over the years. To quote: Spencer’s latest comments about Halo Infinite come after his statement last week where he expressed his belief that Halo Infinite will be available in holiday 2021. This, in turn, follows 343 Industries taking center stage at E3 2021 to talk more about the multiplayer aspect of Halo Infinite, among many others. Phil clarified that his latest statement doesn’t necessarily mean that he’s not confident in Halo Infinite. In fact, he stated his belief that millions will play and love Halo Infinite. However, he also added that some will point out opportunities where 343 Industries and Microsoft could have done more. He owed this to just being the “nature of being in the entertainment business” and that he has come to accept it.
What’s next for Microsoft?
In the same sit-down with IGN, Spencer talks about understanding why consumers aren’t sure if studio acquisitions are good or bad. His take on the subject is that it is good. It’s worth noting that Microsoft has bolstered its games lineup with the acquisition of ZeniMax Media earlier this year. Already, we’re seeing the results of Microsoft’s acquisition. Bethesda’s upcoming new IP, Starfield, will be exclusive to the Xbox Series S/X. On that note, there are rumors that The Elder Scrolls VI might be exclusive to the Xbox Series S/X as well. Not one to let itself get outdone, Sony has done its fair share of acquisitions as well. At the moment, Sony has 13 studios under its PlayStation Studios banner, with the latest addition being Housemarque. PlayStation Japan also leaked the 14th studio being Bluepoint Games, although this is not yet confirmed at the moment.
