Xbox, Halo 25th Anniversary Plans Revealed

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 during a recent interview where the company also discussed its expanding business outlook, 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 milestones and its increased focus on licensing and merchandising. This strategy mirrors the successful cross-media expansion seen with franchises like Fallout and Minecraft.

Friend confirmed that Xbox is developing plans for both Halo and the Xbox console's 25th anniversary, stating, "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 remain undisclosed.

Halo's 25th anniversary falls in 2026. The franchise has reportedly generated over $6 billion since Halo: Combat Evolved's 2001 debut, a pivotal launch title for the original Xbox console. Beyond its commercial success, Halo has expanded into novels, comics, films, and most recently, the critically acclaimed Paramount+ TV series.

Friend emphasized a strategic approach to these 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's 15th Anniversary

In related news, Halo 3 ODST recently marked its 15th anniversary with a commemorative 100-second YouTube video reflecting on the game's impact.

Halo 3 ODST is currently 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.