By 4-player co-op is in, but PvP is out
- by Ben Kerry
As the title indicates, Microsoft’s latest Halo: Campaign Evolved remake emphasizes only the narrative mode of its iconic OG Xbox shooter – and now Halo Studios has clarified the rationale behind omitting PvP multiplayer in this new rendition of Halo.
In an interview with Windows Central, executive producer Damon Conn states that Halo: Campaign Evolved is “not attempting to supplant what is a masterpiece in the original” – but rather Halo Studios aims to produce a remake that “stands kind of side by side with it”.
“We’re not aiming to supplant what is a masterpiece in the original. We’re endeavoring to essentially create something that stands kind of side by side with it, utilizing new tools, fresh energy, to offer a different perspective on some elements while honoring the legacy,”
Conn then remarks that developing four-player online co-op for the campaign was critically significant for the team’s Halo: Campaign Evolved vision, adding that this entirely new component will “unite individuals” with “a strong sense of community” for the upcoming release.
“So, yes, it’s a campaign experience, but it isn’t merely a single-player experience. Halo has always been about reconnecting, fostering a strong sense of community, and telling those narratives and sharing experiences collectively. We believe that is where we can truly unite people with this new launch,”
Online co-op is bound to be a favorite with Halo: Campaign Evolved – it took the team ages to implement the feature for Halo Infinite after the 2021 title was released with solely a single-player narrative mode. Regarding the exclusion of PvP, we’ve also come across numerous rumors suggesting a separate Halo multiplayer initiative is underway alongside this remake – and if accurate, this might clarify why the 2026 title won’t have competitive online gameplay.
All we know for certain right now is that Halo: Campaign Evolved will debut next year featuring four-player co-op, and that Halo Studios has multiple projects in the pipeline following the recent shift to Unreal Engine 5.
What are your thoughts on these statements from Halo Studios? Share your opinions about Campaign Evolved below!
[source windowscentral.com]
Ben is a News Writer at Pure Xbox, and enjoys action, racing, and direct shooting in any Xbox game he can access. When he’s not gripping an Xbox controller as if his life depends on it, Ben spends his time enjoying music that’s far too old for him, watching football on television, and probably eating somewhere.