The Countdown to Halo Infinite
With the gaming world at the edge of its seat for the release of the delayed Halo Infinite, Xbox Series X users are in for a spectacular ride. The franchise is taking a giant leap by introducing open-world elements, a first for the series, offering an adventure that promises to be grander than ever. So, as the clock ticks closer to the release, many fans might be wondering: “Where do I even start with the Halo series?” Well, fret not; we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a newcomer or just need a refresher, here’s your ultimate guide on how to experience the Halo universe from its inception to the latest developments.
Begin with the Basics: The Release Order
“Halo: Combat Evolved is the first game in the series, but it was re-released in 2011, and it is also included in the Halo: The Master Chief collection.”
Before diving headfirst into the intricate storylines, let’s set the ground rules. If you’re new to the franchise, the most straightforward path is to play the games in the order they were released. Trust me, Halo isn’t as complicated as figuring out the Zelda or Kingdom Hearts game orders—thank the gaming gods! You can snag Halo: The Master Chief Collection which includes Halo 1, 2, 3, and 4, along with Reach and ODST. It’s even available on Game Pass for an all-in-one binge experience. The release order would look like this:
- Halo: Combat Evolved (2001)
- Halo 2 (2004)
- Halo 3 (2007)
- Halo Wars (2009)
- Halo 3: ODST (2009)
- Halo: Reach (2010)
- Halo 4 (2012)
- Halo: Spartan Assault (2013)
- Halo: Spartan Strike (2015)
- Halo 5: Guardians (2015)
- Halo Wars 2 (2017)
- Halo Infinite (2021)
The Twists and Turns: Chronological Order
“To be fair to Halo, it is much simpler to work out the order of the games than it is with many other franchises.”
For those who wish to traverse the Halo timeline in its narrative sequence, it’s time to tangle with the chronological order. Starting with Halo Wars, which takes place two decades before Combat Evolved, this order allows you to experience the storyline in its entirety—connecting all the dots right up to Halo Infinite. Here’s the lowdown:
- Halo Wars
- Halo: Reach
- Halo: Combat Evolved
- Halo 2
- Halo 3: ODST
- Halo 3
- Halo: Spartan Assault
- Halo 4
- Halo: Spartan Strike
- Halo 5: Guardians
- Halo Wars 2
- Halo Infinite
The Unsung Heroes and Cult Classics
Not all Halo titles wear their importance on their sleeves. For instance, Halo 3: ODST might not feature the iconic Master Chief, but it offers a fresh perspective and unique gameplay experience.
“Halo 3 ODST is a Master Chief-free zone…and it ended up being one of the most compelling games in the series – not bad for a title that was never meant to be AAA.”
Halo Wars, a real-time strategy game, allows players to dig into the franchise’s history, 20 years before the Master Chief stepped onto the Halo ring. Meanwhile, Halo: Spartan Assault and Halo: Spartan Strike may have started as mobile experiences but bring enough thrills to warrant a playthrough.
What Lies Beyond the Console?
The Halo universe isn’t confined to just games; there’s an array of novels, movies, and an upcoming TV series to look forward to.
“Blimey, that Master Chief has been busy.”
As we await Halo Infinite, set to be the latest addition in Master Chief’s saga, the narrative promises an epic search for a new AI known as ‘The Weapon,’ and, of course, the return of the Chief’s former companion, Cortana. It’s a fantastic time to be a Halo fan, and for those new to the universe, what are you waiting for? The lore of Halo is an odyssey in itself—so gear up, and let’s finish this fight!
The Awaited Arrival: Halo Infinite
Halo Infinite aims to push the franchise into a new era. It sets the stage for Master Chief to locate a new artificial intelligence known as ‘The Weapon.’ With its help, the search for Cortana and the quest to vanquish new threats is expected to be a gripping narrative.
So, as we brace ourselves for Halo Infinite‘s long-anticipated launch, one thing is clear—whether you’re a rookie or a Halo veteran, there’s something in this universe for everyone.
Halo Infinite’s plot focuses on the Master Chief’s efforts to locate a new artificial intelligence (AI) known by the codename ‘The Weapon’ and, with her assistance, determine the whereabouts of the Chief’s former AI companion, Cortana, and finally end both threats.
Feel the adrenaline, feel the suspense, because the Halo universe is about to expand in ways we’ve never seen before. Ready to join the ride?
